White shirts for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumour in one or both ovaries, with the three most common types being:

-Epithelial type: Arising from the outer cells of the ovary, accounting for 90% of cases.

-Germ cell type: Originating from the cells that produce eggs, making up around 4% of cases.

-Stromal type: Developing from the supporting tissues within the ovary, which is rare.

In 2023, over 1,200 people were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, with the average age at diagnosis being 64 years old.

Ovarian cancer often presents no obvious signs, however some signs may include:

-Abdominal bloating

-Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly

-Frequent or urgent urination

-Back, abdominal, or pelvic pain

-Constipation or diarrhoea

-Menstrual irregularities

-Tiredness

-Indigestion

-Pain during intercourse

-Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but if you are experiencing any of these, you should book in to see your doctor.

Factors that can increase your risk include:

-Age (risk increases for women over 50)

-Family history of ovarian, breast, or bowel cancer

-Changes in the genes BRCA1 or BRCA2

-Being of Ashkenazi Jewish descent

-Early onset of periods (before 12 years) and late menopause

-Women who have not had children or had their first child after the age of 35

-Using oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy or fertility treatment

If you are experiencing possible symptoms, your doctor may suggest several tests or scans

While these tests can show abnormalities, a biopsy (taking a tissue sample) is the only way to confirm a cancer diagnosis.

White Shirt Day aims to fund crucial research to combat ovarian cancer. So far, $31,347 has been raised towards the $40,000 goal 💪.

You can still contribute to this important cause! Visit White Shirt Campaign to donate.