Mexborough women targeted in ovarian cancer drive

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women in the UK but the symptoms are often confused with other conditions.

Mexborough has been selected as one of seven areas to launch a pilot scheme aimed at women aged 50 to 74.

And Doncaster Council for Voluntary Service has teamed up with the North Trent Cancer Network  to deliver the campaign which launched this week.

Nazia Sattar, community development worker with Doncaster CVS, said: “Only 3 per cent of women in the UK know the symptoms of ovarian cancer and it’s our aim to increase this figure.

“80 per cent of the 7,000 cases diagnosed every year occur in women aged over 50 and ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women.

“Many women confuse ovarian cancer with cervical cancer and its symptoms, such as feeling bloated, having a swollen tummy, feeling full or persistent pelvic pain are similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) so GPs don’t always pick it up.

“Ovarian cancer is the most fatal gynaecological cancer so it’s imperative we get the message out there.”

The project will involve members of Doncaster CVS delivering short presentations and working with community groups.

Drop-in sessions will take place at Mexborough Library on John Street from 10am to noon on Wednesday, January 23 and Monday, February 4.

Nazia added: “We are urging any women experiencing the associated symptoms for three weeks or more to arrange to see their GP.”

Doncaster CVS was launched in 1943 to support community and voluntary sector groups.

For more information contact Nazia Sattar 01302 343300.