March 2024 marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in the UK, a crucial time to shed light on this potentially fatal disease. As a doctor and as a women ovarian cancer is a worry. Due to the non-specific symptoms, it is hard to recognise. It is important that women who notice abdominal symptoms know they can raise their concerns with their doctor, and that they will be listened to and have the necessary investigations. Raising awareness of the disease and the signs and symptoms is important so that more women are diagnosed earlier when the disease is easier to treat.
Ovarian Cancer in the UK:
According to recent statistics, ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer among women in the UK. Each year, around 7,500 women are diagnosed with this disease, with over 4,100 losing their lives to it. Despite these alarming figures, ovarian cancer remains a silent killer due to its vague symptoms and late-stage detection.
Recognising the Symptoms:
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be subtle and easily overlooked, contributing to its late diagnosis. Common warning signs include:
- a swollen tummy or feeling bloated
- pain or tenderness in your tummy or the area between the hips (pelvis)
- no appetite or feeling full quickly after eating
- an urgent need to pee or needing to pee more often
Fatigue, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss can also be indicators. However, these symptoms are often mistaken for less severe issues, leading to delayed medical attention.
Early Detection:
The key to combating ovarian cancer lies in early detection. 93% of people diagnosed with ovarian cancer survive their disease for 5 years or more if diagnosed at the earliest stage (stage 1) compared to just 13% when diagnosed at the latest stage (stage 4). Unfortunately, due to its elusive nature, ovarian cancer is often identified at an advanced stage, making successful treatment more challenging.
iPLATO’s Commitment to Ovarian Cancer Awareness
At iPLATO, we understand the power of knowledge and early intervention. Our commitment extends beyond technological solutions to supporting initiatives that raise awareness and promote early detection. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder that understanding symptoms, seeking timely medical attention, and advocating for increased awareness are crucial steps in the battle against ovarian cancer.
Katerina, Project Manager for iPLATO’s cancer screening programmes, which include bowel, cervical, breast, prostate, oesophageal – commented, “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of early detection, a mission central to our work at iPLATO. By leveraging technology to increase the number of people attending their screening appointments, we aim to empower people to recognise symptoms and seek early intervention. Together, we can improve outcomes and save lives”