THE FACTS
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An estimated 3,100 Canadian women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer per year.*
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An estimated 1,950 will die from it.
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Ovarian cancer is the 5th most common cancer for women and is the most serious women's cancer.*
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Ovarian cancer is a serious disease with no early detection test. Most women are unfortunately diagnosed in the later stages of the disease and 60% of them will not survive past four years.
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Even though the statistics surrounding the disease are bleak, the good news is that when it is diagnosed in the earliest stages, the long-term survival rate is 90%. Education and awareness are the best tools we have for improving survival by alerting women to the signs and symptoms of the disease.
*Source: ovariancanada.org
THE SYMPTOMS
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Vague but persistent gas, nausea, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea
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Abdominal bloating, feeling of fullness, or pain
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Frequent urination or urgent urination
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Menstrual disorders, pain during intercourse
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Fatigue, backaches
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Weight gain or loss
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Abdominal distension
THE RISKS
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Personal or family history of breast, ovarian, endometrial, prostate, or colon cancer
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Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer or syndrome
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Increasing age
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Unexplained infertility, no pregnancies, and no history of birth control pill usage
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Use of high-dose estrogen for long periods without progesterone
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North American or Northern European heritage and/or Ashkenazi Jewish population
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Living in an industrialized country
Take action if any symptom lasts more than 2 weeks!
Screen for ovarian cancer includes a combination pelvic/rectal exam, a CA-125 blood test and a transvaginal sonogram.
Pap smears DO NOT detect ovarian cancer.
THE RESOURCES
Translational Ovarian Cancer Research Group
London Health Sciences Foundation
Matt Galloway, on CBC Radio's The Current, recently interviewed Alicia Mathlin, a warrior in her battle against ovarian cancer. After enduring multiple rounds of exhausting cancer treatments, Mathlin felt disconnected from her own body. Consequently, she made the courageous choice to halt treatment and prioritize her life. Galloway delves into Mathlin's decision and consults medical specialists regarding the concept of "common-sense oncology." This approach evaluates the benefits and drawbacks of treatments in light of a patient's quality of life. Tune in to this thought-provoking discussion by clicking the link below.
LISTEN HERE
Inspire those impacted by ovarian cancer, serving as a beacon of hope for a future free from ovarian cancer. Register today for the London Run for Ovarian Cancer and make a difference.