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In Australia we often hear about cancers of the bowel, breast and lung. Though these are the most deadly cancers in the nation, only 46%survive from the 1,510 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer per year. February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Every February, Ovarian Cancer Australia raises awareness of the signs and symptoms, shares stories of every-day women affected, highlights risk factors and educates Australians on ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment. The nation is losing a battle with ovarian cancer, it receiving less than 24% of the funding of other, less deadly cancers. Your help is needed. Having already raised nearly $10,500, reaching their target of $500,000 will help make changes in awareness, treatment and survival rates. You can buy a teal ribbon, donate, host a Paint the Town Teal event or even buy products from Simson’s Pantry, Wynstan and Black Pepper who support Ovarian Cancer Australia. There are plenty of non-monetary actions that help too, with a variety of kits and brochures available on their website.
Ovarian cancer symptoms are vague and tend to be linked to other conditions, making them easy to go unrecognised. Equally, many of the risk factors are similar to other diseases. Diagnosing ovarian cancer can involve seeing a GP, a CA125 blood test, ultrasound and internal vaginal examination to start with. Further tests and treatment can be more invasive and take a toll on women. Stress disorders, depression and anxiety peak after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer affecting women Australia. Know your Body and be ovarian cancer aware.
