September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
The Southern 7 Health Department is encouraging women to be proactive in early detection, to know the symptoms, and have current knowledge of available treatments.
There are no simple or reliable screening tests to detect ovarian cancer (OVC) like there is for cervical cancer.
Often OVC has no symptoms in early stages and often goes undetected until late stages of the disease. Symptoms can include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, urinary urgency or frequency, and difficulty eating or feeling full quickly. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, consult your physician.
Higher risk factors for ovarian cancer include family history of the disease, colorectal or breast cancers, women who have never had children, and increased age. If you think you are at a higher risked based on your family history, Genetic Cancer Testing is available through Southern 7 Health Department for you and your family to help determine your risk and begin early detection.
Illinois is ranked as having the nation’s 6th highest number of both ovarian cancer deaths and new cases.
For more information on ovarian cancer follow Southern 7 Health Department on Facebook and Instagram, visit www.hopelightproject.com, download the Southern 7 App, or call Southern 7 Health Department at 618-634-2297, ext. 971161.
To learn more about Genetic Cancer Testing and to schedule an appointment, contact Southern 7 Health Department.
