Of 1000 women surveyed, nearly 80% did not know that bloating could be a manifestation of ovarian cancer.
- In 2018, 3,500 French women died from ovarian cancer and 5,200 new cases were reported.
- “The vast majority of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage of their cancer,” laments the INCa.
According to a new poll by the British charity Target Ovarian Cancerwomen still know far too little about the symptoms of ovarian cancer.
“These figures are incredibly disappointing”
79% of the 1000 English women surveyed did not know that bloating could be a manifestation of the disease. 78% thought the same about abdominal pain, and 97% were unaware that the rapid onset of satiety should alert. Last alarming figure: 40% of respondents also mistakenly imagined that ovarian cancer could be detected by cervical cancer screening.
“These numbers are incredibly disappointing. We know we have made a difference over the last ten years thanks to the dedication of thousands of activists, but it is not enough”laments Annwen Jones, CEO of Target Ovarian Cancer. “It is essential that everyone knows the symptoms. We need to campaign on a large scale on this subject, supported by the government. If we succeed in this, fewer people will be diagnosed late, fewer women will need invasive treatment and , ultimately, fewer patients will die unnecessarily from ovarian cancer.”she adds.
Symptoms that should lead to consultation
Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognize, especially at an early stage. They are often identical to those of less serious conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Here is what should lead to consult his doctor and make him think of possible ovarian cancer:
Permanent feeling of bloating.
Bloated stomach.
Discomfort in the stomach or pelvic region.
Feeling full quickly when eating or loss of appetite.
Need to urinate more often or more urgently than usual.
persistent indigestion or nausea.
Pain during intercourse.
Change in bowel habits.
Back pain.
Vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.
Permanent feeling of fatigue.
Unintentional weight loss.
Certain factors are considered protective of the disease, such as oral contraception, pregnancy, tubal ligation or ablation. Conversely, certain elements increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer and should lead to vigilance: personal and family history, nulliparity, overweight or obesity, early periods, late menopause and ‘advanced age.
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