AS PART of March’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, women in Worcestershire are being encouraged to visit a doctor if they experience any of the symptoms of the disease.

More than 6,500 women in the UK are affected by the disease every year. Early symptoms include persistent bloating, pain in the pelvis and lower stomach and difficulty eating.

Dr Martin Lee from NHS England in Arden, Herefordshire and Worcestershire said visiting a doctor as soon as any symptoms of the disease – the fifth most common form of cancer among women – are noticed gives a much better chance of making a full recovery.

“Women should check for any symptoms of ovarian cancer and if they have any worries or concerns they should either call NHS 111 or see a health professional,” he said. “Ovarian cancer is most common in women who have already been through the menopause but it can affect women of any age.”