10/03/2026
PHA Issues Ovarian Cancer Warning During Awareness Month
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is using Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month this March to remind the public of the critical signs and symptoms associated with the disease.
Data shows that in Northern Ireland, 1,019 cases of ovarian cancer, which includes fallopian tube cancer, were diagnosed between 2018 and 2022. This represents an annual average of approximately 200 cases. The PHA is now encouraging women to consult their GP immediately if they identify any common symptoms.
Dr Tracy Owen, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: "Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, usually in those over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger women. Unfortunately, many women don't know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and this can lead to delays in them contacting their GP. No matter what age you are, it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as the earlier it is detected, the easier it can be to treat and the better chance of survival."
Potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
• Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (the tummy and the area below).
• Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating that does not come and go.
• Difficulty eating or a feeling of being full quickly.
• Urinary symptoms, such as needing to pass water more urgently or more frequently than usual.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Extreme fatigue or feeling very tired.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Vaginal bleeding occurring after the menopause.
Dr Owen added: "Symptoms of ovarian cancer are frequent – happening more than 12 times a month – persistent, and new, meaning they are not normal for you and may have started in the last year. If you do experience any of these symptoms, it may not be anything serious, but it's important to contact your GP because finding ovarian cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment."
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer:
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Visit www.ChooseToLiveBetter.com for more information on simple steps on getting active and healthier food choices that can help maintain a healthy weight.
Stop smoking. Visit www.StopSmokingNI.info for tips on helping you to quit and information on free local support services available.
For more information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer see www.BeCancerAwareNI.info.
Data shows that in Northern Ireland, 1,019 cases of ovarian cancer, which includes fallopian tube cancer, were diagnosed between 2018 and 2022. This represents an annual average of approximately 200 cases. The PHA is now encouraging women to consult their GP immediately if they identify any common symptoms.
Dr Tracy Owen, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: "Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, usually in those over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger women. Unfortunately, many women don't know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and this can lead to delays in them contacting their GP. No matter what age you are, it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as the earlier it is detected, the easier it can be to treat and the better chance of survival."
Potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
• Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (the tummy and the area below).
• Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating that does not come and go.
• Urinary symptoms, such as needing to pass water more urgently or more frequently than usual.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Extreme fatigue or feeling very tired.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Vaginal bleeding occurring after the menopause.
Dr Owen added: "Symptoms of ovarian cancer are frequent – happening more than 12 times a month – persistent, and new, meaning they are not normal for you and may have started in the last year. If you do experience any of these symptoms, it may not be anything serious, but it's important to contact your GP because finding ovarian cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment."
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer:
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Visit www.ChooseToLiveBetter.com for more information on simple steps on getting active and healthier food choices that can help maintain a healthy weight.
Stop smoking. Visit www.StopSmokingNI.info for tips on helping you to quit and information on free local support services available.
For more information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer see www.BeCancerAwareNI.info.
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
05 March 2024
PHA Highlights Signs And Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer
Women in NI have been urged to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and to speak to their GP's as soon as possible if they notice any of the common symptoms.
PHA Highlights Signs And Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer
Women in NI have been urged to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and to speak to their GP's as soon as possible if they notice any of the common symptoms.
22 May 2019
NI Cancer Patients May Rise By 60%
The number of new cancer patients in Northern Ireland could rocket by over 60% before 2035 if rigorous action is not taken now, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland has warned.
NI Cancer Patients May Rise By 60%
The number of new cancer patients in Northern Ireland could rocket by over 60% before 2035 if rigorous action is not taken now, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland has warned.
09 September 2011
Yellowhammer Portraits Are Framing Success
Two local cancer charities, the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) and Friends of the Cancer Centre, have announced a unique fundraising initiative - the opportunity to buy a highly collectable piece of art by acclaimed Irish artist, Nicola Russell, while making a significant contribution to the work of both charities.
Yellowhammer Portraits Are Framing Success
Two local cancer charities, the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) and Friends of the Cancer Centre, have announced a unique fundraising initiative - the opportunity to buy a highly collectable piece of art by acclaimed Irish artist, Nicola Russell, while making a significant contribution to the work of both charities.
07 November 2008
UCF Targets Cancer Awareness
The signs and symptoms of Northern Ireland's biggest cancer killer are being highlighted by a local charity this week with the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) using national 'Lung Cancer Awareness Month' as a springboard to target local people.
UCF Targets Cancer Awareness
The signs and symptoms of Northern Ireland's biggest cancer killer are being highlighted by a local charity this week with the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) using national 'Lung Cancer Awareness Month' as a springboard to target local people.
04 December 2014
Cancer Campaigner Una Crudden Passes Away
Ovarian cancer campaigner Una Crudden has passed away after being diagnosed with the terminal illness in 2009. The west Belfast woman began campaigning for the promotion and awareness of the condition following her diagnosis, focusing on how many women can be misdiagnosed.
Cancer Campaigner Una Crudden Passes Away
Ovarian cancer campaigner Una Crudden has passed away after being diagnosed with the terminal illness in 2009. The west Belfast woman began campaigning for the promotion and awareness of the condition following her diagnosis, focusing on how many women can be misdiagnosed.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Any showers will clear this evening. The rest of the night will be dry with clear spells, allowing some patches of mist and fog to develop. Minimum temperature 4 °C.