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Historically, Ovarian Cancer has been called the “silent killer” because symptoms were not thought to develop until the chance of cure was poor. However, recent studies have shown this term is untrue and that the symptoms are much more likely to occur in women with Ovarian Cancer than women in the general population.
Women with Ovarian Cancer report that symptoms are persistent and represent a change from normal for their bodies. The frequency and/or number of such symptoms are key factors in the diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer. Several studies show that even early stage Ovarian Cancer can produce these symptoms.
As women, we know our bodies, and we know when something is different. It is crucial that we pay attention to these symptoms should they arise, however insignicant we may think they are. Early detection is key to saving lives!
Ovarian Cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers in the United States. In 2011, an estimated 22,000 women were diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer and 14,000 women lost their lives to Ovarian Cancer.
The most effective way a woman can protect herself against Ovarian Cancer is to become educated. Learn the signs and symptoms. Listen to your body. If these symptoms persist and they are unusual for you, see a health care professional to rule out the possibility of Ovarian Cancer.
Currently there is no accurate test for Ovarian Cancer as the PAP test does not detect it. If any of these signs and symptoms are persistent and unusual for you, speak to your gynecologist immediately and say, “Prove to me that I am not at risk for Ovarian Cancer.”