More than ever there’s symbolism behind what you wear: a red dress, is a shout out to heart health; a pink ribbon shows your support of breast cancer awareness; and donning a little, yellow wristband is a sign that you support all people affected by cancer.
This month is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and to kick it off, the HERA Women’s Cancer Foundation is asking you to dig through the rainbow in your closet and pull out a new color: Teal. Tomorrow, Friday September 3, is National Wear Teal Day. Wear it, wink at others who are wearing it, and spread the word about why you picked it: because awareness about ovarian cancer and it’s symptoms is increasing, and you are part of the solution that is saving women’s lives.
Aren’t you? Well, if not, wearing teal is a good first step, knowing the symptoms is an easy second, and spreading the word is an easy third. Being part of the solution is just a matter of recognizing the symptoms says HERA’s Executive Director, Danni Lederman. “In order to stop the loss of women from ovarian cancer,” Danni says, “we have got to get the word out, and we need your help. Please tell all the women in your life about the symptoms of ovarian cancer.”
What are they? Danni provided this short list of the most common symptoms, but there’s more information available on HERA’s website: www.herafoundation.org:
- Abdominal pressure, bloating, or discomfort
- Nausea, indigestion, or gas
- Urinary frequency, constipation, or diarrhea
- Abnormal bleeding
- Unusual fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Shortness of breath
- Other symptoms can include indigestion, back pain, bowel problems, abnormal bleeding or unusual fatigue. Take action if they last more than 2-3 weeks and they are unusual for you.
