People in Northern Ireland are being reminded of the main signs and symptoms of a cancer most common in older women.
This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, the Public Health Agency is urging women of any age to speak to their GP as soon as possible if they notice any of the common symptoms. From 2016 to 2020, there were around 200 cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland each year.
Dr Tracy Owen, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA said: “Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, usually in those over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger women. No matter what age you are, it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as the earlier ovarian cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat and the better chance of survival.”
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Dr Owen added: “Symptoms of ovarian cancer are frequent, happening more than 12 times a month, persistent, and new, meaning they are not normal for you and may have started in the last year. If you do experience any of these symptoms it may not be anything serious but it’s important to contact your GP because finding ovarian cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment.”
Common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer
persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (that’s your tummy and below); increased abdominal size/persistent bloating – not bloating that comes and goes; difficulty eating or feeling full quickly; urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual); changes in bowel habits; extreme fatigue (feeling very tired); unexplained weight loss; vaginal bleeding after menopause.For more information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer see www.BeCancerAwareNI.info.
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