Warning signs for ovarian cancer are nonspecific and can apply to many other medical issues. Symptoms include a bloated abdomen, feeling full or having difficulty eating, persistent pain in the abdomen or pelvis, change in bowel habits, unexplained vaginal bleeding, and frequent or urgent urination. While ovarian cancer can be linked to causes such as ultraviolet radiation (from electronics) that penetrates the pelvis, carcinogens in diet and environment, and genetics, there is still much to be learned about this silent killer. Researchers have discovered a link between pregnancy and hormonal birth control lowering the risk for ovarian cancer, since there may be a connection between ovulation and ovarian cancer ― but that alone isn’t enough.

With so many question marks surrounding a disease that kills over 14,000 women each year , let’s do our part to ensure that the 22,000 women who will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016 defy the odds and live to see many more birthdays. To do this, we have to raise awareness, raise funds, and work towards a cure. It’s time to get cracking.