March 11, 2009

expert comments on early results from ovarian cancer screening trial, as published in The Lancet Oncology

The trial suggests that screening could detect ovarian cancer before symptoms develop; currently, most cases are not detected until symptoms appear, by which time the cancer is at a more advanced stage.

Peter Reynolds, Chief Executive, Ovarian Cancer Action, said:

“The initial findings of this long-term study are encouraging, particularly because almost half of the ovarian cancers detected were at an early stage (stage 1), when survival rates can be as high as 90%. However, the trial still has several years until completion and the researchers will need to assess mortality rates to get a clearer idea of how effectively these screening methods translate into saving lives.

“In the absence of a national screening programme, improving awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and developing a better understanding of how to treat it more effectively through investment in research, will both play a vital role in ensuring women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer at an earlier stage and they receive the most effective treatment.”