Cancer is expected to affect one in two people during their lifetime, yet many still overlook common symptoms. This is a concerning fact, as often these signs are dismissed, with individuals not realising they could be indicative of something serious.
Doctor Shireen, a GP who gained popularity through her informative TikTok videos, knows this all too well. In a recent video, she highlighted the typical “red flag” cancer symptoms that people frequently miss. These are signs that should not be ignored for the sake of your health.
Speaking in the video, Dr Shireen said: “There is one cancer where I think patients sit on their symptoms for a little bit too long before they see their GP. Ovarian cancer. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are pretty non-specific a lot of the time that means you might think you just have a bit of an upset stomach, you’ve got a bit of indigestion, you’re generally feeling quite tired. You might not necessarily straight away think it’s cancer. Other cancers really like to show themselves, and show themselves off like a breast lump or mucus in the poo and changes in the bowel habit.
Ovarian cancer doesn’t really do that for us.” Dr Shireen stressed the importance of recognising common symptoms, which include feeling bloated, a sensation of fullness after consuming very little food and a persistent dull ache in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. Frequent urination can also be a subtle indicator.
Upon consulting with a GP regarding any potential symptoms, Dr Shireen highlighted they would start with a physical examination to check for any unusual lumps or masses. A straightforward blood test could further clarify if there are underlying issues. Typically, results from such medical evaluations are returned within a couple of days.
If normal, they generally provide a considerable amount of reassurance but, if the tests raise concerns, patients will be referred for more comprehensive assessments. She emphasised early detection is crucial, urging individuals not to delay seeking medical advice if symptoms emerge. Despite being less overt, ovarian cancer signs should prompt action as people can often “sit on their symptoms”, according to Dr Shireen.
The video uploaded by Dr Shireen has resonated with over 9,000 viewers, prompting many to share their personal encounters with the disease in the comments section. Particularly poignant was one user’s comment, which read: “I literally was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when I was 24. For about four years I was going to the doctors, and they told me I was too young to see a gynaecologist, and that it’s probably my periods.”
Another person added: “My sister died age 26 to ovarian cancer. She started showing signs a year before she found out. What it was we just didn’t know.” A third person shared a similar experience, commenting: “My mum felt bloated for months. Ovarian cancer – she passed away two years later.”