Daily diary helps women recognise symptoms of ovarian cancer
Research shows it is the frequency and persistency of symptoms that can help distinguish between ovarian cancer and other less serious conditions. In order to help women and their doctors assess when ovarian cancer should be considered, Ovarian cancer action have launched their symptom diary, including top tips on getting the best out of your doctor's appointment. We urge all women concerned about persistent abdominal problems that could be an early warning of ovarian cancer, not to hesitate to see their doctor, and keep a daily record in our symptom diary for 4 weeks, so they can share this information with their GP.
Jemima Peacock, who has had ovarian cancer, thinks the idea is 'awesome'. "For the patient it gives them the confidence to go to the doctor, and from the doctor's point of view it gives a very clear picture of what the patient is suffering, with symptoms that may otherwise be very difficult to pin down."
Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect because symptoms can be similar to other less serious conditions such as IBS. The diary will help communicate the nature of the symptoms, so that doctors can be very clear about what the woman is experiencing, and help them decide if ovarian cancer is a possible cause.
The symptom diary has been developed in conjunction with women who have had ovarian cancer, GPs, and gynaecologists and is based on the latest evidence based research on symptoms associated with the disease.The majority of women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed with late stage disease, and have often been experiencing symptoms for some time. This can be because they do not recognise that something serious could be the cause, or they have visited their doctors and undergone treatment/tests for a range of other conditions before the correct cause is identified. The new research suggests that when one or more of the key symptoms occur on 12 or more days in a four week period, that ovarian cancer should be considered as a possible cause.
Annwen Jones, Chief Executive, advises "Women should not hesitate to go their GPs with their health concerns, but many find it difficult or intimidating, and don't want to be seen as making a fuss. This diary can help the communication process, and hopefully improve the accuracy and timing of referrals. Ovarian cancer is much easier to treat when detected in early stages."
To download the symptom diary and tips on getting the most out of your appointment click here.
Goff B.A, Mandle L.S, Drescher CW, Urban N Gough S, Schurman KM, Pataras J, Mahony BS, Robyn Andersen M. Development of an Ovarian cancer Symptom Index: Possibilities for Earlier Detection CANCER: 2007 Jan 15; 109(2):221-7, PMID:17154394