New York City – In a recent health segment aired on ABC7, Dr. Antoinette Sakarias, a gynecologic oncologist, sat down with ovarian cancer survivor Cathy Brockhoff to highlight the often‑overlooked signs of this deadly disease. Both women stressed that early detection can dramatically improve outcomes, and they urged New York women to pay close attention to subtle changes in their bodies.
Key symptoms that should not be ignored
According to Dr. Sakarias, ovarian cancer frequently presents with vague, non‑specific symptoms that many people attribute to everyday ailments. She listed the most common warning signs:
- Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling that does not go away after a short period
- Unexplained pelvic or lower‑back pain
- Changes in appetite, especially feeling full quickly
- Unusual urinary urgency or frequency
- Irregular menstrual cycles or post‑menopausal bleeding
These signs often develop gradually, making it easy for women to dismiss them. “If any of these symptoms linger for more than a few weeks, it’s time to schedule a visit with your physician,” Dr. Sakarias advised.
Survivor’s perspective adds urgency
Cathy Brockhoff shared her personal journey, noting that she initially thought her persistent bloating was due to diet. “I ignored the pain because I was busy with work and family,” she recalled. “By the time I finally saw a doctor, the cancer had already spread.
Her story underscores the critical need for awareness. Brockhoff now volunteers with local support groups, helping other women recognize early signs and navigate the healthcare system.
What New Yorkers can do now
Both experts recommend the following steps for women in the city:
- Track any persistent symptoms for at least two weeks.
- Schedule a comprehensive pelvic exam with a trusted OB‑GYN.
- Ask about transvaginal ultrasound or CA‑125 blood testing if risk factors are present.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking—to support overall reproductive health.
Dr. Sakarias also highlighted that women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, or those who carry BRCA gene mutations, should discuss more aggressive screening options with their doctors.
Community resources in the tri‑state area
New York City offers several resources for women seeking information or support:
- The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) hosts monthly webinars accessible to all New Yorkers.
- Local hospitals such as NYU Langone and Mount Sinai provide dedicated women’s health clinics with specialists in gynecologic oncology.
- Support groups meet regularly at community centers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, offering peer‑to‑peer encouragement.
By spreading awareness and encouraging timely medical visits, Dr. Sakarias and Brockhoff hope to reduce the number of late‑stage diagnoses in the region.
Looking ahead
Both women expressed optimism that continued education and community outreach will lead to earlier detection rates. “When women feel empowered to listen to their bodies and act on warning signs, we can save lives,” Brockhoff said.
For more information on ovarian cancer symptoms and local resources, visit the ABC7 health page or contact your primary care provider.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
