Early treatment for ovarian cancer

SEVENTEEN women in Warrington are likely to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year.
Knowing the signs could help them seeking advice early, when treatment is more likely to be effective, according to hospital chiefs.
This month is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust says it is important for women experiencing a range of symptoms most days to see their GP. These include:
* Persistent pelvic/stomach pain
* Increased stomach size
* Persistent bloating
* Difficulty eating
* Feeling full quickly.
Other less common symptoms include urinary symptoms, changes in bowel habits, excessive tiredness and back pain.
Women are also advised to tell their GP if there are two or more cases of ovarian or breast cancer in their close family, as ovarian cancer can sometimes run in families.
Nigel Holland, gynaecological consultant at the Trust said: “If ovarian cancer is diagnosed at an early stage the outcome is good. However, because some of the symptoms can be vague and similar to those of more common conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose. Most women are not diagnosed until the disease has spread. Therefore it is important to be aware of the symptoms, so that you can seek advice early if you experience any of them. Early diagnosis can save lives.”
For further information visit www.ovarian.org.uk