Aviva Study Reveals Critical Gaps in UK Women’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness, Urges Early Detection

Aviva Study Reveals Critical Gaps in UK Women’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness, Urges Early Detection

(IN BRIEF) Aviva’s recent research, conducted during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, reveals significant gaps in the knowledge of ovarian cancer symptoms among UK women. The study found that 62% of women overall, and 73% of those over 55, feel they lack adequate understanding of the disease. Alarmingly, 43% mistakenly believe a smear test can diagnose ovarian cancer. With around 7,500 new cases diagnosed annually—expected to increase to 9,400 by 2040—and a 53% rise in insurance claims related to ovarian cancer from 2023 to 2024, the study highlights the critical need for improved awareness. Only 12% of respondents correctly associated key symptoms like bloating and persistent abdominal swelling with ovarian cancer, while many attributed these signs to other conditions or remained uncertain. Additionally, while a majority recognized family history as a risk factor, fewer were aware of the roles of genetic mutations, age, and diabetes. Dr. Suba M of Aviva UK Health stressed the importance of early detection and public education to mitigate the impact of ovarian cancer.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 20-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — New research commissioned by Aviva during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month reveals alarming gaps in UK women’s knowledge about ovarian cancer symptoms and diagnostics. According to the study, 62% of respondents admitted to having insufficient knowledge about ovarian cancer, with this figure rising to 73% among women over 55—a group at higher risk. Notably, 43% of those surveyed mistakenly believed that a smear test, which is designed to detect cervical cancer, could also diagnose ovarian cancer.

The study comes at a time when ovarian cancer remains a critical health challenge in the UK, with approximately 7,500 new cases diagnosed annually—a figure that could surge to around 9,400 by 2040. Financially, the burden is significant; Aviva paid out over £6.4 million in private medical insurance claims for ovarian cancer in the previous year, a 53% increase compared to 2023, with 91% of these claims coming from women over 40.

When asked about the symptoms they would associate with ovarian cancer—such as a persistently swollen abdomen, bloating, stomach pain, or early satiety—only 12% of respondents correctly identified ovarian cancer as the potential cause. In contrast, 29% attributed these symptoms to irritable bowel syndrome, 15% thought they might indicate a stomach bug, and 23% were unsure.

This widespread lack of awareness contributes to delays in seeking medical attention; on average, women reported waiting between 18 to 26 days before consulting a general practitioner upon noticing these symptoms. Additionally, many were unaware of the range of diagnostic tests available for ovarian cancer, typically involving a pelvic examination, internal examination, blood tests, ultrasound scans, and sometimes a biopsy.

Regarding risk factors, while 65% of women recognized that a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer increases risk, only 35% were aware of the impact of genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2), and just 41% associated increased age with higher risk. A mere 13% knew that diabetes could elevate the risk, despite research indicating a roughly 20% higher risk of cancer among diabetics compared to non-diabetics.

Dr. Suba M, Medical Director at Aviva UK Health, emphasized the importance of awareness: “Several risk factors are associated with ovarian cancer, including genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, and age. While lifestyle choices can help lower the risk of developing cancer, many risk factors for ovarian cancer cannot be prevented. Raising awareness about ovarian cancer is crucial, especially given the projected rise in incidence rates. Unlike some other cancers, early-stage ovarian cancer does not have one specific sign or symptom and can cause vague gastrointestinal symptoms that anyone might experience. Women may also experience multiple symptoms at the same time. It’s vital that women know what to look out for and seek medical advice promptly if they have any concerns. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.”

The findings underscore an urgent need for enhanced public education on ovarian cancer symptoms, risks, and diagnostic procedures to encourage timely medical consultations and improve treatment outcomes.

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer and awareness levels amongst the women surveyed