September Is Ovarian Cancer Month

Thursday, 24 September 2009 14:30

With over 20,000 new cases and 15,000 deaths annually, ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecologic cancer. Since there is no reliable screening test for this disease yet, a women’s best defense is to learn the risk factors and symptoms.

The risk factors for ovarian cancer include:

• Genetic predisposition

• Personal or family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer

• Increasing age

• Undesired fertility

The most common symptoms for ovarian cancer are:

• Abdominal/pelvic pain

• Bloating

• Feeling full quickly while eating

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate in the absence of an infection

Other symptoms may include unexplained weight loss or gain, intestinal upsets, bleeding, back pain and unusual fatigue.

Women who experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks are urged to see their doctor – preferably a gynecologist – and discuss the possibility of ovarian cancer.

The Long Island chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition is committed to raising awareness and promoting education about ovarian cancer.  It also seeks to improve the quality of life and survival rate for women with ovarian cancer.  The chapter meets at the Plainview Old Bethpage Library and is holding its “Third Annual Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer “on Sept. 26, at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow.

For more information on ovarian cancer, the walk and the LI chapter, call 631-672-2027, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or log onto www.ovarian.org.