Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Why Awareness Matters?
Introduction
Every September, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder of one of the most overlooked and deadly forms of cancer affecting women. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” ovarian cancer is notorious for being difficult to detect in its early stages. This month is dedicated to raising awareness, improving education, supporting survivors, and promoting early detection to save lives.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries—female reproductive glands that produce eggs. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. There are several types of ovarian cancer, but epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common.
Despite medical advancements, ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynecologic cancers due to late diagnosis. According to the American Cancer Society, over 19,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with ovarian cancer annually, and around 12,000 will die from the disease.
Why is Early Detection So Challenging?
Because the ovaries are situated deep within the abdominal cavity, early signs of ovarian cancer can be hard to notice or identify. The symptoms are often subtle and easily confused with more common, less serious health issues. As a result, early detection is challenging, and only about 20% of cases are diagnosed in the initial stages (Stage I or II). In most instances, noticeable symptoms don’t appear until the cancer has advanced to later stages (Stage III or IV).
Recognizing Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle and easy to overlook, especially in the early stages. Because they can resemble more common, less serious health issues, many women may not recognize them as warning signs:
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer:
- Persistent bloating
Swelling or fullness in the lower abdomen; clothes may suddenly feel tighter around the waist - Pelvic or abdominal pain
Ongoing discomfort or pain in the pelvis, abdomen, or lower back - Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating
Loss of appetite or early satiety after eating small amounts - Frequent urination
An increased urge to urinate or needing to urinate more often than usual
Less Common Symptoms:
- Pain during intercourse
Unusual discomfort or pain during sex - Back pain
Chronic or unexplained pain in the lower back - Fatigue
Feeling excessively tired or lacking energy for no clear reason - Menstrual changes
Irregular periods, heavier bleeding, or unexpected vaginal discharge - Digestive issues
Nausea, upset stomach, heartburn, constipation, or changes in bowel habits (such as urgency or pain)
It’s important to pay attention to these symptoms—especially when they are new, persistent (lasting more than two weeks), or worsening over time.
Who is at Risk?
While ovarian cancer can affect any woman, certain factors may increase risk:
- Age: Most common after menopause
- Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Endometriosis
- Never having been pregnant
Genetic testing and counseling can help identify high-risk individuals and inform preventative strategies.
Prevention & Early Detection
Although ovarian cancer cannot always be prevented, the following can lower risk or aid early detection:
- Know your family history and consider genetic counseling if at risk
- Report unusual symptoms to your doctor early
- Birth control pills may reduce risk when used long-term
- Preventive surgery (like removal of ovaries or fallopian tubes) for high-risk women
How You Can Support Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Here’s how individuals, communities, and organizations can get involved:
- Wear Teal: Teal is the symbolic color for ovarian cancer awareness efforts. Wearing teal during September is a simple but powerful way to show support and spark conversations.
- Share Information: Use social media, blogs, and community boards to share facts and survivor stories. Awareness leads to early diagnosis—and early diagnosis saves lives.
- Support Research and Nonprofits: Organizations like the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) and National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) fund critical research and provide support for patients and families.
- Attend or Host Events: Look out for local awareness walks, webinars, or fundraisers—or host your own to honor loved ones and raise funds.
Conclusion
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a symbolic observance—it’s a call to action. It reminds us of the importance of listening to our bodies, educating ourselves and others, and supporting continued research for earlier diagnosis and better treatments. This September, let’s break the silence surrounding ovarian cancer and stand together for a future where no one has to face this disease alone.
- Medicine and Diseases,Public Health
- 29 September 2025
- 11:00
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
