World Ovarian Cancer Day – A Message From a Survivor
Understanding Why Ovarian Cancer Is Overlooked and Misdiagnosed by Tammy Evans
The Gradual Nature of Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Ovarian cancer often presents unnoticed and misdiagnosed because the symptoms are subtle, develop gradually, and mimic other health issues.
My journey began with mild fatigue, an unexpected change in weight, loss of appetite, feeling full after a few bites of food, bloating, lower back pain, and increased frequency of bathroom visits. Occasionally, I experienced sudden, sharp pain in the abdomen that disappeared as quickly as it appeared. These symptoms seemed insignificant at first, and even with my own medical knowledge as a practicing dental hygienist and degree in Public Health, I attributed them to digestive ailments. At one point, I tried treating the symptoms with probiotics, not realizing how serious the situation truly was.
Just two months before symptoms began, my annual physical showed no signs of concern, leaving me perplexed when things changed. After lying flat and palpating my abdomen, I discovered a firm area on one side, which prompted me to seek medical advice. Ultrasound and MRI imaging confirmed a large mass, and all plans changed instantly as I quickly found a gynecologic oncologist. From there, I underwent surgery to remove the tumor, followed by chemotherapies delivered through two separate implanted ports.
Awareness of Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
This scenario is surprisingly common; nearly 1 in 78 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, often because the symptoms are subtle and progress slowly. I had no idea I was experiencing classic signs of ovarian cancer until the disease was advanced.
Lack of Reliable Screening
Gynecologic cancers, including ovarian cancer, are not widely discussed, and funding for research remains limited. There is currently no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, which is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death among women and can affect anyone with ovaries at any age. Because my diagnosis came at a late stage, my chances of survival were lowered.
Since my diagnosis, nearly ten years ago, and after five recurrences, infusions, blood labs, palliative care, and PET/CT scans have become part of my routine.
Until a reliable screening test is developed, recognizing symptoms is crucial to reducing the incidence of ovarian cancer. While Pap smear tests can detect cervical cancer, there is no equivalent test for ovarian cancer.
Hope Through Research and Understanding Risk
Continued research offers hope for all affected by ovarian cancer. It is important for anyone born with ovaries to understand risk factors, genetic connections, and to remain watchful and vigilant about symptoms. Up to 1 in 4 ovarian cancers are linked to inherited risk. Your family’s health history could hold important information.
I encourage open discussions with family members regarding cancer history and recommend consulting your physician about genetic testing.
Support and Advocacy
I am proud to volunteer for Northwest Hope & Healing, which financially supports women facing breast and gynecologic cancers. to help lessen stress during cancer treatments.
For most of us, a cancer diagnosis is the most physical and emotionally challenging time of our lives. It’s hard to ask for help, but believe me, compassion from others pushes us to keep thriving and surviving.
By sharing my experience and raising awareness, I encourage others to learn about ovarian cancer and take proactive steps toward their health.
Learn more about ovarian cancer:
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance: orcahope.com
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition: ovarian.org
