Ovarian cancer a silent killer of older women
The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, and approximately 80% of all new cases diagnosed in 2002 were in women 50 or over.
There is no effective screening test, meaning women need to be alert for symptoms.
Since many of the symptoms are vague and often associated with other medical conditions, ovarian cancer is often not diagnosed in the early stages.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Week runs from 24 February to 2 March.
The aim of the week is to educate women about the warning signs: abdominal bloating, appetite loss, unexplained weight gain, constipation, heartburn, back pain, frequent urination, abdominal/pelvic pain and fatigue.
For more information visit www.ovariancancerprogram.org.au
