What consideration has the Government given to holding an awareness campaign on the symptoms of ovarian cancer, following the recent petition by Target Ovarian Cancer and the National Federation of Women's Institutes Wales calling for greater awareness of the symptoms?
Whilst the Welsh Government has no plans to introduce national symptom awareness campaigns for cancer, including ovarian cancer, we are always prepared to work with cancer charities to promote any evidence-based messages on seeking help and advice from the NHS. Anyone concerned about significant or prolonged changes to their physical health should always seek advice from their GP.
Health Education and Improvement Wales is rolling out a digital decision and training aid to primary care services to assist referral management. In addition, the NHS in Wales has made available Rapid Diagnostic Centres to the whole population, to rapidly investigate people with vague symptoms of cancer.
The Welsh Government already requires the NHS to deliver accelerated pathways for cancer, including ovarian, compared to all other conditions. In order for those diagnosed with cancer to start first definitive treatment within 62 days of the point of suspicion, any investigations need to be completed urgently. In addition, the national optimal pathway for ovarian cancer guides NHS planning and delivery of services. It includes referral straight to test at the beginning of the pathway and completion of the diagnostic phase of the pathway within 28 days.