The 4 ‘Silent Signs’ of Ovarian Cancer You Should Never Ignore

Around 7,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year in the UK, with 4,100 succumbing to the disease. Despite being the sixth most common cause of cancer death in women, symptoms of ovarian cancer can be challenging to detect, often remaining subtle until the cancer has progressed.

Key Symptoms to Watch Out For

Dr. Alexis Missick, a GP working with pharmaceutical company UK Meds, warns that signs of ovarian cancer can be easily mistaken for other conditions. The cancer can cause pelvic pain and affect toilet habits, with one telltale sign even manifesting itself during mealtimes.

Dr. Missick highlights four silent symptoms of ovarian cancer:

1. Bloating or swelling of the abdomen
2. Pelvic pain or discomfort
3. Feeling full quickly when eating
4. Needing to pee more often and more frequently

Additionally, less common symptoms include pain during sex, swelling and pain in the legs, extreme fatigue, changes in bowel habits, back pain, and irregular periods. Dr. Missick urges individuals to seek medical advice if they experience these symptoms persistently alongside more common signs of the disease.

Understanding Treatment Options

When it comes to treating ovarian cancer, Dr. Missick emphasizes that the approach varies based on the cancer stage and type. Treatment options may include surgery to remove cancerous tissue, chemotherapy to shrink tumors, and hormone therapy. It is crucial to have detailed discussions with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

Ovarian cancer can be severe, especially if diagnosed at an advanced stage. However, early diagnosis significantly improves the prognosis, with 90% of women living beyond five years when diagnosed at stage 1. Factors influencing the outcome include the cancer stage, type, and response to treatment.

Exciting advancements are on the horizon, with University of Oxford scientists developing a vaccine that targets early-stage ovarian cancer, potentially eliminating the disease. This innovative approach mirrors the success of the HPV jab in combatting cervical cancer.