Teal Ribbon Day, being held on 24 February, is a day to support Australians affected by ovarian cancer and educate people about this deadly disease to change the story for future generations.
The day is a highlight of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month which aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, to share the stories of women affected by the disease, to highlight the risk factors for ovarian cancer and to educate Australians on ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Each year in Australia, more 1,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and more than 1,000 die from the disease.
In Australia, the overall five-year survival rate for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer is 46 per cent. In comparison, the overall five-year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer is 91 per cent.
There is no effective screening program for ovarian cancer, so the best way of detecting the disease is to know the signs and symptoms.
The most commonly reported symptoms for ovarian cancer are:
- Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating
- Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
- Feeling full after eating a small amount
- Needing to urinate often or urgently
Additional symptoms:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Excessive fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Indigestion or nausea
- Bleeding after menopause or in-between periods
- Pain during sex or bleeding after
It is important to remember that all the symptoms mentioned can be caused by other, less serious medical conditions.
However, Ovarian Cancer Australia advises women who are experiencing any of the symptoms, which are persistent and troublesome, to see their doctor. The organisation runs a helpline on 1300 660 334 which people can call and speak to an ovarian cancer nurse.
Donations on Teal Ribbon Day can be made on the dedicated website dedicated website.
