08/05/2026
World Ovarian Cancer Day is a reminder that ovarian cancer deserves more awareness, earlier recognition, and ongoing research.
In Australia, it is estimated that 1,929 people will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2025, and 1,061 people will die from the disease. Around 5,574 people in Australia are living with an ovarian cancer diagnosis made in the previous five years, and the five-year survival rate remains 49%.
One of the reasons ovarian cancer can be so challenging is that there is no routine screening test for women at average risk. A Cervical Screening Test does not screen for ovarian cancer.
The symptoms can also be vague and easy to dismiss, especially in the early stages.
Things to look out for include:
Persistent bloating or an increase in abdominal size
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating
Loss of appetite
Urinary urgency or frequency
Changes in bowel habits
Unexplained fatigue
Unexplained weight changes
What matters most is not just having one of these symptoms from time to time.
It is when symptoms are persistent, new for you, happen frequently, or are getting worse.
Ovarian cancer does not always present loudly.
Often, it is the pattern that matters.
The persistence.
The sense that something is not right in your body.
If you are noticing ongoing symptoms, please do not ignore them.
Speak with your GP or specialist.
Awareness matters. Early assessment matters. And feeling heard matters too š¤