“Every year in Australia around 1,500 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and more than 850 women will die from the disease –that’s 1 woman every 11 hours,” said Mrs Hull.
“However, if ovarian cancer is discovered in the early stages, the majority of women will make a full recovery.
“I will be joining the Ovarian Cancer Australia Teal team by wearing a teal ribbon on February 24th to help meet their target of ensuring every woman in Australia knows the symptoms of ovarian cancer.
The four most frequently reported symptoms from women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are: persistent abdominal pain or pelvic (lower abdominal) pain; a noticeable increase in abdominal size or abdominal bloating; needing to rush to the toilet to urinate often or urgently; and feeling full quickly and finding it difficult to eat.
Mrs Hull said there is no early detection screening test for ovarian cancer. A pap smear does not detect ovarian cancer. This is why awareness of the symptoms is critical.
“Woman who experience symptoms should consult their GP,” Mrs. Hull said.
Please visit www.ovariancancer.net.au for further information on ovarian cancer, 2010 Teal Ribbon Day and a more detailed listing of ovarian cancer symptoms.
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For further information please contact Lucy Spora on 02 6921 4600.