"Silent No More:" Ovarian Cancer
By: Sydney Hart, KARK 4 News
Updated: September 6, 2007
Local women are speaking out about ovarian cancer.In a rally held at the State Capitol Wednesday, ovarian cancer survivors and their loved ones are urging women to listen to their body.
The theme is "Silent No More."
What was once known as the silent killer, doctors say there are now symptoms of ovarian cancer.
And they're urging women to listen, it may be a whisper, but symptoms are there.
"About 1 in 70 women develop ovarian cancer over their lifetime," explains Dr. Alexander Burnett, UAMS.
According to the American Cancer Society over 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer by the end of this year.
Around 15,000 of those women will die because of the disease.
So in an effort to curb those statistics doctors, survivors and advocates joined efforts to raise awareness about ovarian cancer.
"There's just so many people out there that have no idea," says ovarian cancer survivor, Suzanne Holland.
All women are at risk of ovarian cancer, but very few know the warning signs. And while doctors say the symptoms may be vague, early detection could save a life.
"Symptoms such as bloating, pain or pressure in the pelvis, change in appetite, pressure on the bladder," adds Burnett.
Suzanne Holland experienced subtle symptoms a couple years ago. She never imagined she'd be diagnosed with ovarian cancer just six months ago.
"I'm a survivor," Holland cheers.
But Suzanne's daughter, Amy, wishes they'd caught the cancer earlier.
"I want to make sure other people are aware of what she went through and what we could've caught three years ago," explains Amy Lasseigne.
It's been a rough few months for Suzanne and her family "I think the saddest part is seeing the effect on my family. It's been the hardest part," cries Holland.
But now, they're banning together to send a message.
"Pap smear does not test for ovarian cancer. It tests for cervical cancer - I think that's been a big misunderstanding for people my age," says Lasseigne.
Doctor Burnett agrees, claiming yearly exams are always recommended, but different technology, such as an ultrasound, is needed to spot ovarian cancer, "Now ultrasound is a little expensive and for screening test and that's why that hasn't become a routine screening test."
When and if such screenings will be provided during regular checkups in the future is not known at this time.
There's good news for Suzanne this week, her last chemo treatment is this Friday.
She knows she'll be worn out for awhile, but looks forward to getting back on her feet soon.
For more information you can call 1-800-ACS-2345.
