Table of contents
Raising Awareness of Ovarian Cancer Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities in Regional and Rural Australia
Cancer Information and Support
Understanding Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries and can spread to other parts of the abdomen and pelvis. Symptoms are often subtle and can be mistaken for less serious conditions. Common signs include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Pelvic pain or abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Urinary urgency or frequency
- Changes in bowel habits (e.g., constipation)
It’s important to recognise these symptoms early, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Challenges Faced by CALD Communities in Regional, Rural and Remote Areas
Individuals from CALD backgrounds in regional and rural Australia may encounter several barriers to accessing ovarian cancer information and support:
- Language Barriers: Limited proficiency in English can hinder understanding of medical information and communication with healthcare providers.
- Cultural Differences: Diverse cultural beliefs and practices may influence perceptions of health and healthcare, potentially affecting engagement with medical services.
- Geographical Isolation: Living in regional, rural and remote areas can limit access to specialised healthcare services and support networks.
These challenges can lead to delays in seeking medical advice, resulting in late-stage diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.
Recommendation for Early Detection
1. Stay Aware of Symptoms
The first line of defence is being aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Many of the symptoms of ovarian cancer are subtle and easily mistaken for other, less serious conditions. Women should pay attention to the following persistent symptoms mentioned above.
If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, women should seek medical attention. In regional and rural areas, where healthcare access may be limited, it’s important not to delay seeing a doctor or a local health service provider.
2. Regular Health Check-ups and Pelvic Examinations
Even if there is no routine screening for ovarian cancer, regular health check-ups are crucial for early detection. Women in rural and regional areas should take advantage of any available health services, such as local GPs or telehealth services, to discuss their symptoms and risk factors. During these check-ups, doctors may perform a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities in the ovaries or uterus.
While the pelvic exam is not a definitive test for ovarian cancer, it can help identify any changes or growths that may warrant further investigation.
3. Genetic Testing and Family History
Women with a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer, particularly those with known genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2), may be at higher risk. Women in rural and regional areas who believe they may be at higher risk should speak with their GP about the possibility of genetic testing. Some public health programs provide genetic counselling and testing services, which may be available remotely through telehealth or through referrals to specialised clinics.
For women with a genetic predisposition to ovarian cancer, doctors may recommend more intensive screening, including:
- Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): While not perfect, this imaging technique may help detect ovarian abnormalities, particularly in high-risk women.
- CA-125 Blood Test: This test measures the level of a protein (CA-125) in the blood, which can be elevated in some women with ovarian cancer. However, it is not a reliable screening tool for the general population but may be useful for women at higher risk.
4. Community and Local Health Programs
Local health initiatives and community outreach programs can help educate women in regional and rural areas about ovarian cancer. Programs offered by organizations like Ovarian Cancer Australia and Cancer Council Australia often focus on raising awareness and providing resources for detecting the disease early.
Women in these areas can reach out to community health services, including local hospitals and rural health networks, to inquire about any outreach programs, educational sessions, or support groups available. These programs often provide much-needed information on symptoms, early detection, and prevention.
5. Support from Local Healthcare Providers
Rural and regional doctors and nurses play a vital role in the early identification of ovarian cancer. These healthcare professionals may have the opportunity to build stronger, long-term relationships with their patients, which can be helpful in recognising symptoms early. Women should feel comfortable discussing any persistent symptoms with their healthcare provider, even if they seem vague or are difficult to explain.
6. Collaborate with Specialist Services
For women in rural areas, accessing specialised care may require referrals to larger metropolitan health centres or hospitals. However, telehealth services and local health providers can facilitate these referrals, reducing the need for travel. Women who live in rural areas should work closely with their GP to ensure they are referred to specialists (e.g., gynaecologists, oncologists) for further investigation if symptoms or risk factors warrant.
7. Keep Up with the Latest Information
It’s important for women living in regional and rural Australia to stay informed about ovarian cancer screening recommendations and the latest research. Healthcare providers can assist in keeping their patients updated on new screening tools and clinical trials that may be available in metropolitan centres or through telehealth services.
It is achievable
For women living in regional and rural Australia, early detection of ovarian cancer is more challenging but still achievable. Being proactive about recognising symptoms, utilising telehealth for consultations, maintaining regular check-ups, and discussing genetic testing with healthcare providers are essential strategies. While there is no routine screening for ovarian cancer, especially for those at average risk, the above mentioned steps can help women in rural areas detect ovarian cancer earlier and improve their chances of successful treatment.
Available Resources and Support
Several organisations offer valuable resources and support for individuals affected by ovarian cancer:
- Ovarian Cancer Australia: Provides comprehensive information on ovarian cancer, including symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. They also offer support services and resources tailored to diverse communities.
- Cancer Council Australia: Offers educational materials and support services for cancer patients and their families, with resources available in multiple languages.
- Embrace Multicultural Mental Health: Provides guides and resources for service providers working with CALD communities, ensuring culturally sensitive care and support.
- Embrace Care Solutions: Provides Counselling and Psychosocial Support (face-to-face and via telehealth) dedicated to women’s health and fertility-related concerns. While it is a paid service, however, women from CALD backgrounds can avail discounts on the services. Self-referrals are accepted
Addressing the needs of CALD communities in regional, rural and remote Australia requires a concerted effort to overcome language, cultural, and geographical barriers. By implementing culturally appropriate strategies and utilising available resources, we can enhance awareness, early detection, and support for ovarian cancer, ultimately improving health outcomes for these communities.
Dr Sabine Wardle is a senior social worker, academic, researcher and a women’s reproductive health and infertility counsellor. She is passionate about social justice and advocates for equitable health services for all, regardless of gender, cultural background or geographical location. Sabine has lived the experience of caring for her mother from a non-English speaking background, going through her journey with ovarian cancer in a regional location. Sabine is keen to raise awareness about women’s health issues.
