It claims the life of an Australian every eight hours, yet there is no early screening test available to detect ovarian cancer.
This is why Bendigo, Victoria, gynaecologist Dr Anju Agarwal and the team at Specialists on Honeysuckle are wearing dresses throughout the month for Frocktober.
Frocktober is an initiative that supports the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation and its work to develop an early detection test and more targeted treatments.
Dr Agarwal said there was no screening test available.
"Early diagnosis is the key for all cancers, and in ovarian cancer that is the biggest difficulty," Dr Agarwal said.
She said the symptoms of the cancer - such as bloating, swelling and a loss of appetite - were often quite vague and attributable to other conditions.
By the time most women are diagnosed, the cancer is already in the advanced stages.
Information from the OCRF says that the average five-year survival rate is 46 per cent, and for those diagnosed when the cancer is in the later stages, just 29 per cent will survive beyond five years.
Dr Agarwal and her colleagues hope to contribute to changing these statistics by participating in Frocktober.
"We want all women to live to their full potential," she said.
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Frocktober has also presented an opportunity for the team to dress up and together make a positive change during the pandemic.
To donate to the cause, visit the team's Frocktober page.
Dr Agarwal said women who experienced symptoms of ovarian cancer should see their GP.
Symptoms include abdominal pain or pressure; unusual feelings of fullness, gas, nausea or indigestion; sudden swelling, bloating or weight gain; persistent changes in bowel or bladder patterns; low back ache or cramps; abnormal vaginal bleeding; pain during intercourse; and unexplained weight loss.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
