I am grateful to County Executive Aaron Reardon for issuing a proclamation declaring September 2006 Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in Snohomish County.

Every woman is at risk for ovarian cancer, regardless of age, heritage, fitness level or medical history. When ovarian cancer is detected early, over 90 percent of women survive; however, only about 20 percent of those diagnosed are at this early stage.

Symptoms are subtle, difficult to diagnose and often misdiagnosed. The symptoms for ovarian cancer can include any of a combination of the following: abdominal pressure, bloating or discomfort, increased abdominal size, increased or urgent need to urinate, pelvic pain, nausea, indigestion or gas, changes in bowel habits, abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual fatigue, unexplained weight loss or gain. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a health-care professional if any of these symptoms are new and persist for two to three weeks, and/or are becoming more frequent or severe.

Contrary to popular belief, a PAP smear is not a test for ovarian cancer – it is a screening test for cervical cancer.

Lack of awareness about the symptoms contributes to delays in diagnosis for thousands of women in the U.S. each year. These delays often prove deadly.

Ten years ago my mother, Florence V. Leakey, passed away with late stage ovarian cancer. We were not aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

I commend Executive Reardon’s commitment to support women’s health in Snohomish County. Increased awareness and education about the symptoms of ovarian cancer are crucial to saving lives.

Caroline Brown

Ovarian Cancer Advocate

Snohomish County Representative