"Chris's story is typical of many patients' experiences with ovarian cancer diagnosis. Ovarian cancer does not present with highly specific symptoms and can be difficult to distinguish from other more common benign conditions especially in the early stage. In Chris's case her individual symptoms of pain in her side, bloating, and pain during sex could easily have been mistaken for menopausal changes but luckily her GP recognised that together they could indicate a gynaecological cancer and recommended further investigation.

The medical profession acknowledge that embarrassment can be a barrier to women seeking advice on intimate symptoms. Chris waited four months before mentioning her symptoms to her GP. We know that earlier diagnosis can save lives so it is important for women to talk to friends, family and especially their GP as soon as symptoms present.

In the general population, i.e. women who do not have a strong family history of breast/ovarian cancer, the incidence of ovarian cancer is related to age and increases after the age of 50. Therefore in most cases it will occur after the menopause. This was the case in Chris's experience.

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague but it is important for all women to be aware of the following three symptoms which, if they occur on most days, can suggest ovarian cancer:

•  Persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
•  Increased abdominal size/persistent bloating - not bloating that comes and goes
•  Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly

Occasionally other symptoms such as urinary symptoms, changes in bowel habit, extreme fatigue or back pain may also be experienced on their own or at the same time as those listed above. Again, it is most likely that these symptoms are not ovarian cancer, but may be present in some women with the disease.

If you regularly experience any of these symptoms, which are not normal for you, it is important that you see your GP. 

Meanwhile for younger women, being pregnant (or having children and breast feeding) and taking the pill can have protective qualities but our message to all women is to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to visit your GP if you have any concerns."

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for further information

Liz Engel, Press Office, The Eve Appeal

Tel: 020 7299 4430/07812 150832

email Liz

The full release can be found here.