Dr Amir Khan, an ITV doctor, has issued a warning to women about ovarian cancer, often called a 'silent killer'. He highlighted that symptoms can be vague but persistent, urging women to seek medical help if they last three weeks or more.
In a video on Instagram, Dr Khan explained that ovarian cancer affects around 7,700 women annually in the UK, with about 3,900 deaths. The ovaries are almond-shaped organs on either side of the womb, and anyone with ovaries can develop the cancer, though it is more common in women over 40.
Symptoms include a swollen tummy or bloating, feeling full quickly or reduced appetite, pain in the tummy or pelvis, and a frequent need to urinate. Other signs may include indigestion, changing bowel habits, back pain, tiredness, unexplained weight changes, or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Dr Khan stressed that while these symptoms are common and often caused by other conditions, persistence is key. If symptoms occur most days for three weeks or more, they should not be ignored. He also noted that family history of breast, ovarian, or bowel cancer increases risk.
He concluded: 'Most people with these symptoms won't have ovarian cancer, but getting checked early can make a huge difference if it is something serious.'
