World Ovarian Cancer Day was officially put on the calendar on May 8th 2013 and brings awareness to ovarian cancer, the most serious of all the gynecologic cancers out there since it has the LOWEST survival rate. This is interesting to me because it is from the ovaries that humanity begins its journey. To be under such a threat is  scary but possible since the symptoms amount to:

• Persistent abdominal pressure and bloating
• Persistent indigestion/gas
• Pelvic discomfort/pain
• Decreased appetite/Feeling full quickly
• Having to urinate a lot
• Increased abdominal size
• A persistent lack of energy
• Low back pain

Since these symptoms could lead to a whole host of medical issues, too often there is late diagnosis which is a factor in the low detection and survival rate.

At present there is no screening test for ovarian cancer. Many mistakenly think a Pap smear will cover cervical cells and ovarian cells as well but it doesn’t. You should consult a physician if you have any of these symptoms and if you you may have a family history of ovarian cancer. Your physician may conduct a complete pelvic exam, ultrasound and blood test. He/she may also refer you to get genetic testing to confirm any diagnosis.

You can get more information on Ovarian Cancer from the official website: http://www.ovariancancerday.org or from the Trinidad and Tobago’s Cancer Society’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TrinidadandTobagoCancerSociety.

So be aware, wear teal or a teal ribbon and support our cancer society in bringing awareness to this form of cancer and others that are detrimental to human life.

Bless up

TMIDM