Sept. 14--DECATUR -- Illinois and national public health officials are working to get the word out about the fifth leading cause of cancer death. Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common type of cancer among women in the United States, according to a recent news release issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
A woman's risk of getting the disease is one in 67, and one in 95 women with ovarian cancer die from it, according to department statistics. During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, which occurs every September, the Illinois Department of Public Health seeks to educate women about the risk factors, diagnosis, symptoms and treatment of ovarian cancer.
"Many women with ovarian cancer do not experience any symptoms, which makes it difficult to detect and the cancer is often in an advanced stage when it is diagnosed," said IDPH Director Dr. Damon T. Arnold. "Early detection is the key to surviving cancer. This September, ask the women in your life if they know about ovarian cancer, and if they don't, tell them it's important to you that they talk with their health care provider."
Initial symptoms of the disease, if there are any, are similar to indigestion or gastrointestinal illness. They can include general abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and more frequent urination, loss of appetite, feeling full even after light meals, unexplained weight gain or loss and abnormal vaginal bleeding. Those experiencing any of these symptoms should check with a physician.
All women are at risk, but approximately 90 percent of the women who get ovarian cancer are older than 40, with the highest percentage of those cases occurring in those 60 and older. Some other risk factors include a family history of the disease, never having had children, a personal history of breast or colon cancer and obesity.
Diagnosis of the disease can be difficult and often does not happen until the disease becomes advanced, the release stated. Some diagnostic tests include pelvic exam, imaging tests, blood tests and biopsy.
Treatment options depend on the type of ovarian cancer and the stage of the disease.
"I encourage all women, especially those with a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer, and those over age 55, to protect their health by knowing the risk factors and discussing possible symptoms, including abdominal pain, with their health care provider," Arnold was quoted as saying.
agetsinger@herald-review.com 421-6968
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