Coles launches teal appeal to help women with ovarian cancer

Coles is selling teal-coloured ribbons and pens for $3 and $4 each at supermarkets including at Cleveland and Victoria Point until Wednesday, May 8.

A Coles spokesperson said 100 per cent of the money raised would be given to Ovarian Cancer Australia to fund advocacy, research and support for those affected by the disease.

Ovarian cancer has the lowest survival rate of any women's cancer. The cancer often goes undetected before being diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Ovarian Cancer Australia chief executive Jane Hill said abdominal or pelvic pain, increased abdominal size, persistent bloating, the need to urinate often or urgently and feeling full after eating a small amount could all be symptoms.

Ms Hill said women had an 85 per cent chance of surviving ovarian cancer if it was detected early.

However, there was no reliable screening test for early diagnosis, with women urged to know and recognised the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

"At present, 75 per cent of women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage where the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, making it more difficult to treat successfully," she said.

Coles state manager Jerry Farrell said the ovarian cancer fundraiser began in 2014 after Coles Queensland team member Mary Waters lost her battle with the disease.

About $260,000 has since been raised by Coles since then, he said.

"We hope this year is no exception and look forward to seeing generous teams and shoppers go above and beyond to drive awareness of the signs and symptoms, and support for this important cause," he said.

Teal Ribbon Day was on February 27 this year.

To find out more about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, treatment and support, visit ovariancancer.net.au.