Ovarian cancer next under the microscope

We have come a huge way to understand the mechanics behind breast cancer, including early diagnosis, screening and treatment, due to in large part to research carried out by experts and greatly advanced by charity fundraising. Now Liz Engel of the charity The Eve Appeal argues that ovarian cancer needs the same attention.

Introduction

The statistics surrounding the five gynaecological cancers (cervical, ovarian, vaginal, vulval and womb) are extremely poor. In the UK alone, 53 women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer every day and 21 will die. This mortality rate is around two-thirds that of breast cancer, yet awareness of these cancers and the funding of research does not even come close.¹

The problem is particularly acute in relation to ovarian cancer, as it accounts for more UK deaths than the other four gynaecological cancers put together. The worldwide statistics² are also startling, with an estimated 250,000 new cases of ovarian cancer every year and an estimated 140,000 deaths. This is an issue which particularly affects the more developed countries, where the rates of ovarian cancer are twice as high as poorer and less developed countries.³

For the full article, contact us and ask about subscription:

David Warne
T: 01423 851 150
E: david.warne@barkerbrooks.co.uk

References

1. http://scienceblog.cancerresearchuk.org/2011/06/29/near-doubling-of-uk-cancer-research-funding-in-less-than-10-years/
2. http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-info/cancerstats/keyfacts/ovarian-cancer/uk-ovarian-cancer-statistics
3. http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-info/cancerstats/types/ovary/incidence/#geog
4. http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-info/cancerstats/types/cervix/mortality/#trends
5. http://www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/cervical/publications/2012review.html

Articles