September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month!

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month!

More than 20,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year and a little over 14,000 of these women will die from ovarian cancer (National Cancer Institute, 2016).  Unfortunately there is no known way to prevent ovarian and no screening recommendations for ovarian cancer. The best way to find ovarian cancer early is by talking with your doctor about your risk and recognizing changes or symptoms of ovarian cancer (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016).

Ovarian Cancer Signs or Symptoms

  • Vaginal bleeding – especially if you are in menopause or have any unusual bleeding
  • Pain or pressure in the pelvic/abdominal area
  • Back pain
  • Bloating
  • Feeling full quickly when eating
  • A change in bathroom habits

Check out CDC’s fact sheet on ovarian cancer or the ovarian cancer section for more information.

A Bit About the Coalition

Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health is a regional chronic disease prevention coalition funded by the New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Cancer Control and Prevention. Our purpose is to reduce the state's cancer burden and improve health outcomes for people with, or at risk for, cancer and other chronic diseases in Atlantic and Cape may counties. For more information on comprehensive cancer control, visit www.njcancer.gov. Shore Medical Center is the lead agency for Atlantic and Cape May counties. The CACH is working on a variety of projects to improve our community's health. You can help by becoming involved by being a member or volunteer. Anyone interested should call 609-653-3923.