Ovarian cancer screening not recommended 

A position statement released by Australia’s National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC) this month states that there is no evidence to support screening for ovarian cancer in women without symptoms. The position statement was published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and was the result of a NBOCC Expert Forum involving key stakeholders in ovarian cancer across Australia.

Currently, the range of tests used to diagnose ovarian cancer includes blood tests for cancer markers, pelvic examination and ultrasound. While these tests can be effective in diagnosing women who have symptoms of ovarian cancer, there is no evidence to recommend population-screening of all Australian women. According to Professor Jonathon Carter, Chairman of the Australian Society of Gynaecologic Oncologists, “Testing for ovarian cancer in asymptomatic women can lead to not only false reassurance for women, but can also result in unnecessary and highly invasive procedures on the basis of a false positive.”

However, women who are experiencing ovarian cancer symptoms should consult their health professionals and undergo further investigations as required. Symptoms of ovarian cancer include: abdominal bloating, pelvic, back or abdominal pain, gastrointestinal problems (gas, indigestion, heartburn, nausea), loss of appetite, changes in toilet habits (diarrhoea/constipation), unexplained weight loss or gain, bladder problems or fatigue.

For more information on ovarian cancer, go to

http://www.healthforwomen.org.au/content/view/25/59/  or

visit the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre’s website www.nbocc.org.au  

Content Updated October 8, 2009