Symptoms consensus
Three leading groups in the United States have released a consensus statement on symptoms in ovarian cancer, calling for women and their doctors to be made aware of key frequent and persistent symptoms.
Often referred to as 'the silent killer', the Gynaecological Cancer Foundation, The American Cancer Society and The Society of Gynaecological Oncologists have now agreed that this term is no longer appropriate, and that awareness of symptoms could help in the earlier diagnosis of the disease. This represents an important change in medical opinion.
Andrew Berchuck, MD and President of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists said it was a move which also acknowledged that ‘the vast majority of women with ovarian cancer share the concern that their symptoms did not raise suspicion sooner’, and, ‘that whilst there is not yet any proof that earlier recognition of symptoms improves outcomes, there is little to be lost and much to be potentially gained by increasing awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms that might lead to earlier medical evaluation and intervention.'
Annwen Jones, CEO of Ovarian cancer action is very positive about this statement.
"We have known for some considerable time of the importance of frequent and persistent symptoms, based on published research, and welcome this consensus statement. Earlier this year, we launched our own symptoms awareness campaign with government funding, and have appointed a Healthcare Project Manager to work directly with healthcare professionals to develop their knowledge and improve accuracy of referrals. We know from the women we work with, how strongly they feel with regard to their own diagnosis, and that awareness and early detection are key priorities."
The consensus statement is based on findings by Barbara Goff, in the United States. Her most recent research into symptoms, published earlier this year, highlights that any women experiencing one or more of the following symptoms more than 12 times a month, should make sure her doctor considers ovarian cancer as a possibility.
Bloating or increase in abdominal size
Unexplained abdominal or back pain
Feeling full / difficulty eating
Other persistent and frequent symptoms can include
Increased urinary urgency
Change in bowel habits
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Weight loss or weight gain
Excessive fatigue
For details of the consensus statement visit www.wcn.org/ov_cancer_cons.html