Gynaecological cancer awareness month – busting myths about screening

Posted by: Hardy Fox - Posted on:

September is gynaecological cancer awareness month. A recent survey showed some members of the public have the misconception that cervical screening detects ovarian cancer.

Recent research shows:

  • one in five people wrongly believe there’s a national screening programme for ovarian cancer
  • only 21 per cent of women can name bloating as a key symptom
  • 40 per cent mistakenly think cervical screening detects ovarian cancer.

This confusion contributes to late diagnoses. The NHS cervical screening guidance has been amended and now clearly states it does not detect ovarian or other gynaecological cancers.