It is surprising that there is no screening test available for ovarian cancer, which is said to be the sixth most widespread cancer in females.

There might not be any visible symptoms of the disease during the initial stages. And when they do surface, they might be akin to disorders like irritable bowel syndrome.

Regina gynecologic oncologist Dr. Maryam Al-Hayki says that this implies that a number of patients are not detected with the illness till it reaches the last stage. And at that time, the chances of survival become meager. That’s why it is essential that if someone is suspected with ovarian cancer, the family doctor should refer him to an expert as early as possible.

Al-Hayki says, "It is important to increase knowledge and awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms and to ensure that primary physicians address those symptoms and direct any woman suspected of having ovarian cancer to gynecologic oncology service".

Barbara Vanderhyden, chair in ovarian cancer research at the University of Ottawa said that throughout the nation, many research projects centered on the early prognosis and screening of ovarian cancer.

Al-Hayki says that referral for primary ovarian cancer operation and chemotherapy leads to improved rates of survival in patients, who are at a later stage of the disease. It also enhances their quality of life.