The Department of Health has published information about the key symptoms of ovarian cancer to increase the likelihood of earlier diagnosis. The key symptoms include, persistent pelvic and abdominal pain, increased abdominal size/persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes) and difficulty eating and feeling full quickly. A copy of this information can be obtained by ringing 0203 447 2112 or from the DH website:
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/preventing-cancer/Pages/ovarian-cancer-symptoms.aspx
Should you regularly experience these symptoms which are not normal for you, it is important you see your GP, who can make a referral to the Familial Cancer Clinic requesting an ultrasound and CA125. While it is unlikely these symptoms are due to cancer, it is important to be checked.
When women undergo ultrasound and CA125 testing there is a definite risk of false positive results leading to anxiety and unnecessary surgery. This is higher in younger women who are subject to cyclical variations leading to functional cysts and may suffer from benign conditions like endometriosis. Also it is important to note that these tests can sometimes miss cancer.
