On Saturday, September 19th, 2015 I participated as a Teal Hope sponsor, exhibitor, and 5K runner in this event at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT. Several hundred people turned out for the event which was a great success. I encourage others to join me and participate in next year's event.
About the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition — Connecticut Chapter
The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition - Connecticut Chapter was re-established in July 2009 and serves the entire state of Connecticut. Ovarian cancer not only affects survivors but also their loved ones and friends. Our Chapter is comprised of ovarian cancer survivors and their supporters who have been touched by this disease. The NOCC - Connecticut Chapter seeks to raise awareness of ovarian cancer. Chapter members work tirelessly to educate women and health care professionals about the risk factors, signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer while staying up-to-date on research and treatment options.
The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, Inc. (NOCC) is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information, visit us at www.ovarian.org or call us toll free at 1-888-OVARIAN.
FACTS ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER
Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant or cancerous cells are found in the ovaries. An ovary is one of two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus that store eggs or germ cells and produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
- All women are at risk for ovarian cancer
- 1 in 71 women will develop the disease in their lifetime
- Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers
- 21,980 women were diagnosed nationwide in 2014
- 14,270 estimated deaths nationwide in 2014
- Currently NO early detection test exists
- The Pap smear does not detect ovarian cancer
- If diagnosed and treated early, when the cancer is confined to the ovary, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%
- Fewer than 20% of cases are diagnosed in early stage
- Early detection increases survival rates significantly, therefore education about the early symptoms is imperative
* source: American Cancer Society (2014)
** map from www.statecancerprofiles.cancer.gov
DEATH RATES IN CONNECTICUT
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect because symptoms can be vague and subtle, and are often misdiagnosed as benign illnesses.
Potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
Other symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Upset stomach or heartburn
- Back pain
- Constipation
- Menstrual changes
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, women should see a gynecologist.
Tests used to help detect ovarian cancer:
- Rectovaginal exam
- CA 125 blood test
- Transvaginal ultrasound