Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers to be diagnosed in women, according to the NHS.
The condition affects the ovaries; a pair of small organs that store a woman’s supply of eggs.
Ovarian cancer symptoms include a swollen tummy, passing urine more often than normal, and feeling full quickly after eating.
Those most at-risk of ovarian cancer are women that have gone through the menopause, but it can also affect younger women.
A new treatment has been approved today (June 1) for use in England, and it’s been hailed as “game-changing”.
Niraparib – the new treatment – has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) today.
The drug aims to stop cancer cells from repairing themselves; essentially crippling them.
It’s the first time a breakthrough drug has been made available to women with recurrent ovarian cancer on a mass scale.
Niraparib could help women with ovarian cancer, that have limited treatment options, live well for longer, it’s been claimed.
“Today’s announcement is a gamechanger in ovarian cancer,” said charity Target Ovarian Cancer’s Director of Public Affairs and Services, Rebecca Rennison.
“While we have seen some new treatments in recent years, these have been for highly restricted groups.
“With niraparib, we’re taking the fight to ovarian cancer. We know that with the right investment in new treatments, more women can and will survive this disease.
“Today is a critical first step in making that a reality.”
Ovarian cancer patient Vanessa, 59, was diagnosed with the condition in 2013.
It subsequently spread to her small bowel, liver and colon, and she underwent several rounds of chemotherapy.
Vanessa started taking niraparib in November 2017, as part of a clinical study.
She takes just two tablets a day, and her tumours have since halved in size. Her cancer is now in remission.
“Having access to this medicine has opened a door and given me my life back,” she said.
“I feel like I how I did before I was diagnosed and am now able to play with my grandchildren and make plans for the future.”
Speak to your GP if you’re worried about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
The earlier it’s diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of a cure, the NHS said.
