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More Information on Signs & Symptoms

The government agency  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (better known as CDC) has information available on Ovarian Cancer as part of their Inside Knowledge series.

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Signs & Symptoms

Get the Facts about Ovarian Cancer

Did You Know?

• Ovarian cancer is the most challenging type of gynecological cancers to diagnose.

• Ovarian cancer occurs in approximately 1 in 70 women.

• Each year over 22,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer

• Approximately 110,070 women will be diagnosed with a gynecological cancer

• Detected early and treated properly, survival increases to over 90%

• Obtain an annual Pap Smear (remember it does NOT detect ovarian cancer)

What should I look for?

• Abdominal pressure, bloating, or discomfort

• Nausea, indigestion, or gas

• Constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination

• Abnormal bleeding

• Unusual fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Shortness of breath

• See a health care professional if symptoms are unusual for you and persist.

Who Gets Ovarian and other Gynecological Cancers?

• All women are at risk, but some are at higher risk

• Family or personal history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer• Not Bearing children

What Can Reduce the Risk of Ovarian and Other Gynecological Cancers?

• Oral contraceptives

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding

• Tubal ligation/hysterectomy

• Removal of the ovaries

• Pap Smear (excluding Ovarian Cancer)

What Can You Do?

Until a screening test is found, here is what you can do:

• Have an annual vaginal/rectal pelvic exam.

• If you are at high risk, discuss regular monitoring with your doctor.

• If you have symptoms, ask for a trans-vaginal ultrasound and a CA 125 blood test.

• If ovarian cancer or any gynecologic cancers are suspected, consult a Gynecologic Oncologist.

To find a Gynecologic Oncologist in your area, call the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation at 800.444.4441.