Ovarian Cancer Symptoms


The symptoms of ovarian cancer are unspecific and not easily distinguished from other conditions, often leading to late and even mis-diagnosis. Common symptoms include:^1-3
		1. Abdominal swelling
		Tumour growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form.⁴ The most common symptom is unusual bloating, fullness and pressure in the abdomen or pelvis.³
		2. Weight loss
		Lack of appetite (20% of cases), diarrhea (16% of cases) and nausea (13% of cases) may all contribute to weight loss.³
		3. Urinary problems
		Frequent urination, urgency or burning can all be symptoms of ovarian cancer.³

		4. Fatigue
		Fatigue is excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep. It is one of the most common side effects of cancer and its treatment.⁵

If you want to find out more about ovarian cancer, please launch the animated infographic.
1. Negri E et al. Family history of cancer and risk of ovarian cancer. European Journal of Cancer 2003;39: 505-10. 2. Flam F et al. Symptomatology of ovarian cancer. European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology 1988;27(1): 53-7. 3. Olson S. H et al. Symptoms of ovarian cancer. Obstet Gynecol 2001;98(2): 212-7. 4. National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Symptoms of ovarian cancer. [Online] Available at http://www.ovarian.org/symptoms.php [Last accessed: September 2011]. 5. Medicinenet. Coping with Fatigue. [Online] Available at: http://www.medicinenet.com/cancer_fatigue/article.htm [Last accessed: September 2011].

Source for healthcare professionals: www.inoncology.com
* Nintedanib (BIBF 1120), afatinib (BIBW 2992) and volasertib (BI 6727) are investigational compounds. Their safety and efficacy have not yet been fully established.

† Not an official event of the 2012 ASCO Annual Meeting. Not sponsored or endorsed by ASCO or the Conquer Cancer Foundation.

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