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Jean Kittson (pictured) is one of Australia’s best known and most popular comedians. She’s made us laugh on the Big Gig, Kittson Fahey, Let The Blood Run Free, Good News Week, Flat Chat, Glasshouse, The Great Debates and The Einstein Factor. She has also appeared in movies such as, Hating Alison Ashley. But by far the most important role of her career to date, is that of ambassador of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in Australia. During the month of February, Jean Kittson has been using her considerable talent and star power to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of this potentially deadly disease.
Every day ovarian cancer affects Australian women of all ages and girls as young as 7 have been diagnosed with the disease. And while the risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, the fact remains that all women need to become much more aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
As Jean Kittson explains, “More and more women are coming to understand breast cancer and cervical cancer prevention and detection. Self breast examination and diagnostic screening programs such as mammograms and Pap tests are valuable tools in early diagnosis that saves lives. However, not enough women understand this is not the case for ovarian cancer. A Pap test does NOT detect the disease – there is NO early detection test. Only knowing and recognising the symptoms of ovarian cancer can help save lives.”
“We have a long way to go but the principal aim of this campaign is to reduce the number of deaths from ovarian cancer by making women aware of the symptoms so they seek advice and treatment in the early stages of the disease when there is a greater chance of long-term survival.”
The most common four symptoms which women with ovarian cancer experience frequently and persistently are: pelvic and abdominal pain; increased abdominal size/persistent bloating; increased urinary frequency; and difficulty eating and/or feeling full quickly.
To learn more about the risks, signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer visit www.ovariancancer.net.au.
February 24 is Teal Ribbon Day, a day when all Australians are asked to purchase a ribbon to raise vital funds to help Ovarian Cancer Australia to continue to provide essential support services for women and families touched by ovarian cancer.
“With one Australian woman dying every 11 hours from this insidious disease, on Teal Ribbon Day, our main message to women, from all walks of life, all cultural backgrounds and all parts of Australia is clear; Please, learn the symptoms of ovarian cancer,” said Jean Kittson. “Don’t leave it until the 11th hour!”
Teal ribbons can be purchased for $2.00 from Napoleon Perdis concept stores and Ovarian Cancer Australia. To make a tax deductible donation or purchase teal ribbons (minimum quantity of 5 at $2 each) contact Ovarian Cancer Australia on 1300 660 334 or visit the website www.ovariancancer.net.au
Jean Kittson is currently working as a columnist with Readers Digest Health Smart Magazine and she is a regular guest on Richard Glover’s Thank God It’s Friday Show On 702 Sydney (2BL radio). She is also a firm favourite on the corporate speaker’s circuit.