Ovarian Cancer Awareness: Know the Symptoms, Protect Your Health
- Chanda's ARC Editorial Team
- May 12
- 2 min read
Updated: May 14
Each year, thousands of women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer — a disease often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its subtle, easily missed symptoms. However, awareness can make all the difference.
By understanding the signs and staying proactive about your health, you can help protect yourself and others from the devastating impact of late-stage ovarian cancer.
Why Awareness Matters
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States. The survival rate is significantly higher when the disease is caught early — but only about 20% of cases are diagnosed in the early stages. That’s why education and self-advocacy are so important.
Know the Signs: Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Many ovarian cancer symptoms are vague and easily mistaken for digestive or menstrual issues. If you experience any of the following, speak with your doctor:
Persistent bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Frequent or urgent urination
Fatigue
Upset stomach or indigestion
Back pain
Pain during intercourse
Menstrual changes or irregular bleeding
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Constipation or other bowel habit changes
Even if these symptoms seem minor, don’t ignore them. You know your body best — listen to it.
What You Can Do
✅ Track your symptoms. Write them down and note their frequency.
✅ Talk to your doctor. Be persistent and ask about ovarian cancer if symptoms continue.
✅ Know your family history. Genetic factors like BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations can increase your risk.
✅ Get tested. One of the most powerful ways to break the silence is through testing. Know your numbers — ask your doctor about the CA-125 blood test, which can help detect ovarian cancer, especially when combined with other screening tools.
✅ Support others. Share this information to help raise awareness in your community.
Trusted Resources for More Information
🔗 Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) Provides education, research updates, and support for patients and caregivers.
🔗 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Ovarian Cancer Detailed facts, risk factors, and prevention tips.
🔗 National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Offers support networks, early detection advocacy, and survivor stories.
🔗 American Cancer Society – Ovarian Cancer Detection & Diagnosis
Learn about the CA-125 blood test, pelvic exams, imaging tests, and how doctors detect ovarian cancer early.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a doctor to save a life—just informed and willing to speak up. Whether you're advocating for yourself, your mother, sister, friend, or daughter, awareness can be life-saving. Dr. Chanda Moseley Walton's life might have been spared if she had been warned about the symptoms and told about the simple CA-125 blood test that could have made all the difference.
💙 This month and every month, let’s talk about ovarian cancer. Let’s share the signs. And let’s fight for early detection, better treatments, and hope.
Comments