Study Shows Acting Fast on Symptoms Can Lead to Early Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

Early Detection is Key

Acting quickly on symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, and feeling full could potentially lead to an early diagnosis of ovarian cancer, according to a recent study. Ovarian cancer is often detected at a later stage, when survival rates are lower, and symptoms are usually associated with advanced stages of the disease. However, researchers suggest that these signs could appear up to three years before an official diagnosis, even if they are subtle.

Importance of Symptom Triggered Testing

The study highlighted the effectiveness of 'symptom triggered testing' in identifying early-stage aggressive ovarian cancer in 25% of affected individuals. Additionally, complete surgical removal of cancerous tissue was achievable in 60% of those diagnosed through this method. Researchers hope these findings will encourage more GPs to test for ovarian cancer and urge women with symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.

Raising Awareness

Shockingly, statistics reveal that four out of five women are unaware that bloating can be a sign of ovarian cancer and often neglect to consult a doctor about it. Despite the absence of a national screening program for ovarian cancer in the UK, 'symptom triggered testing' was introduced in 2011 to prioritize women displaying symptoms like bloating, bowel changes, appetite alterations, or abdominal pain for immediate testing and ultrasound.

Potential Impact

Early detection of ovarian cancer is crucial as it can significantly impact survival rates. While 93% of women diagnosed with early-stage disease survive for more than five years, only 13% of those with advanced disease achieve the same. The study, conducted by researchers from the Pan Birmingham Gynaecological Cancer Centre, analyzed data from 24 hospitals in the UK, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Encouraging Action

Professor Sudha Sundar, leading the study, emphasized the significance of these findings in raising awareness among GPs and patients about the importance of early detection. By identifying ovarian cancer at an earlier stage, individuals have a better chance of undergoing successful treatment, potentially saving lives. The hope is that this study will prompt more proactive testing by GPs and encourage women to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms associated with ovarian cancer.