A DRIVE is on all this month to encourage women to understand the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Leading cancer GP for Blackburn with Darwen and East Lancashire, Dr Neil Smith, is among health professionals sending out the message that an early diagnosis can help to save lives.

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During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month there will be stands at Royal Blackburn and Burnley General Hospitals where women can pick up information leaflets about the disease.

Many women incorrectly believe that a cervical smear test detects ovarian cancer and that it has no symptoms.

Dr Neil Smith, Macmillan GP for NHS Blackburn with Darwen and NHS East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Groups, said the symptoms of ovarian cancer can often be the same as symptoms of less serious conditions such as pre-menstrual syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome.

He said: “If diagnosed at the earliest stage, the chance of surviving ovarian cancer for five years or more doubles from just 46 per cent to more than 90 per cent. The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age and most cases are found in women over 50.

“If you think you may have any of the symptoms or are concerned about your ovarian cancer risk you should make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.”

Symptoms can include increased abdominal size and persistent bloating, persistent pelvic and abdominal pain and difficulty eating and feeling full quickly, or nauseous, weight loss, change in bowel habits, and extreme fatigue.

Beverley Walker, gynae-oncology clinical nurse specialist, is among those helping to promote Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. She said: “The whole month is raising awareness for ladies with ovarian cancer or potentially going to be diagnosed and also to raise awareness within the community.

“In 2011 there were 7,100 new cases diagnosed in the UK. That’s 19 women every day."

“My role as a cancer nurse specialist for gynae is to support those ladies through diagnosis and treatment and the rest of their pathway.”