August 28, 2013
September is national gynecologic cancer awareness month. It’s a good time to remember to have a gynecologic screening as well as to report to your doctor any new or ongoing symptoms that may be of concern. Gynecologic cancers include ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar malignancies.Friday, Sept. 6, is National Wear Teal Day in honor and remembrance of those diagnosed with and at risk for ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer accounts for nearly three percent of all cancers among women with over 20,000 new cased diagnosed each year in the United States. Of all of the gynecologic cancers, it has been associated with the highest rate of mortality.
Common signs and symptoms that have been associated with ovarian cancer include:
• abdominal bloating
• increased abdominal size
• altered urinary habits
• feeling full quickly with meals
• changes in bowel habits
• pelvic or abdominal pain
• nausea
• shortness of breath
• vaginal bleeding
• abdominal nodules
If you experience any of these symptoms on an ongoing basis, you should seek the advice of an experienced medical professional.
There is currently no proven accurate method of screening for ovarian cancer available. Therefore, the recommendation is to attend your annual gynecologic examination for baseline pelvic examination and prompt evaluation of any new or persistent signs or symptoms. Overall Rating: