The subtle signs of menopause can tragically disguise a deadly threat: ovarian cancer.
Mater Hospital doctors are issuing a critical alert to women, highlighting how the natural transition into menopause and perimenopause can unfortunately camouflage the early symptoms of life-threatening ovarian cancer. This is a crucial message, especially as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month arrives.
Here's the stark reality: This year, approximately 1,900 Australian women are projected to receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis, and tragically, around 1,000 will lose their lives to this disease. The overlap in symptoms between menopause and ovarian cancer is a significant concern, leading many women to dismiss vital warning signs.
But here's where it gets particularly concerning: Many of the common complaints women experience during perimenopause and menopause – such as bloating, pelvic discomfort, altered bowel habits, persistent fatigue, and unexplained weight fluctuations – are also key indicators of ovarian cancer. This symptom overlap makes early detection incredibly challenging, earning ovarian cancer the grim moniker of the 'silent killer'.
Consider Jodie Roberts' story, a powerful testament to this danger. At 49, Jodie experienced months of fatigue and weight gain, symptoms she readily attributed to menopause. As a busy mum of two and a social worker, she understandably focused on her demanding life. However, on New Year's Eve 2024, a persistent gut feeling urged her to seek medical attention. What she thought would be a quick visit to the emergency department turned into a devastating diagnosis: Stage 4 ovarian cancer, which had spread from her right ovary. "I was putting on weight around my stomach too – I thought I just needed to start exercising. I thought it was all related to perimenopause or menopause, chalked it up to that and carried on," she shared.
And this is the part most people miss: The difficulty in early detection is compounded by the lack of a reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. By the time many women are diagnosed, the disease has often advanced significantly. Jodie's cancer markers were an alarming 4000 at diagnosis, a stark contrast to her current 17 after treatment.
Jodie underwent extensive treatment at Mater Hospital Brisbane, a leading centre for ovarian cancer care. Her journey included chemotherapy, a seven-hour surgery for a full hysterectomy and ovary removal, and further chemotherapy. Despite the high risk of recurrence, Jodie has returned to work and is planning a dream trip to Europe, a testament to her resilience and the excellent care she received.
Her message to other women is urgent: "You can attribute the symptoms of ovarian cancer to so many other things that women experience in menopause – but you shouldn’t." She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health and seeking medical advice if anything feels off. "The symptoms are vague and that’s why ovarian cancer is so dangerous," she warns.
Dr. Catherine Shannon, a Senior Medical Oncologist at Mater Cancer Care Centre, echoes this sentiment. "Ovarian cancer is most common in women over 60, but it can occur at any age, including during perimenopause and menopause," she states. She stresses the need for women to be aware of their bodies and to report any changes to their GP. Dr. Shannon also advises women to discuss their family history of breast and ovarian cancer with their doctor.
Ovarian Cancer Facts to Remember:
- Approximately 1,900 Australian women are diagnosed annually.
- Common symptoms include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, excessive fatigue, and unexplained weight gain or loss.
- It is the deadliest gynecological cancer, with a five-year survival rate of 46%.
- Mater is a premier treatment and research hub in Queensland, caring for over 130 of the 300 women diagnosed there each year.
- The absence of a screening test means many cases are detected at advanced stages.
Now, I want to hear from you: Do you believe the overlap in symptoms between menopause and ovarian cancer is sufficiently understood by the public? Should there be more targeted awareness campaigns for women experiencing perimenopausal and menopausal changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below – your perspective is valuable!
