OVARIAN CANCER

OVARIAN CANCER

Knowing what to look for

More than 20 volunteers tied hundreds of teal-blue ribbons around trees in downtown Youngstown during a campaign Saturday to call increased attention to this often fatal disease. Some facts and symptoms about this form of cancer, often called the “silent disease:”

An estimated one in 71 women in the U.S. will receive a diagnosis.

No early-detection test exists, so women should be vigilant regarding signs and symptoms, especially if they persist for 10 days to two weeks. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the prognosis and chances for survival.

Major symptoms are unusual bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, unexplained changes in bowel habits and weight, menstrual changes, back pain, frequency and/or urgency of urination in the absence of an infection, vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets and pain during sex.

Risk factors include genetic predisposition, undesired fertility and a personal or family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer.

Recommendations are to consult a gynecologist, personal physician or a gynecological oncologist.

Source: www.turnthetownsteal.org.