Manisha's myth buster series

To mark Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month (OCAM) 2025 we're delighted to share a series of myth-buster awareness videos from Ovacome Ambassador and Bollywood star Manisha Koirala.

Having successfully overcome stage 4 ovarian cancer almost a decade ago, Manisha is now using her platform to support others battling the disease and to spotlight critical issues such as health inequalities in the UK and beyond. Manisha is dedicated to empowering cancer patients and shedding light on the importance of early detection.

With this myth-buster series, Manisha hopes to raise awareness and increase knowledge of the disease, and addresses some common misconceptions about ovarian cancer.

Victoria Clare, Ovacome’s CEO:

“We are so grateful to Manisha for her support of those affected by ovarian cancer. Her commitment to our community and her bravery in using her personal experiences to support others is incredible. Our call to action to everyone is to know the signs of the disease and if you need support or information then we can help you. Please share Manisha’s Mythbuster videos with your loved ones and help us to help people get diagnosed sooner".

Myth 1: Ovarian cancer is a 'silent killer'

Ovarian cancer is sometimes called a ‘silent killer’. It’s not silent – many people do experience symptoms, but because these symptoms can be similar to other conditions, ovarian cancer can be hard to diagnose. Be aware of your body, and think BEAT.

B is for bloating that doesn’t come and go
E is for eating difficulty and feeling full more quickly
A is for abdominal or pelvic pain that you feel most days
T is for changes when you go to the toilet

If you experience any of the BEAT symptoms on a persistent or frequent basis – particularly more than 12 times in a month, speak to your Doctor.

For more information and to download our B.E.A.T symptom tracker, see Symptoms of ovarian cancer

Myth 2: Ovarian cancer only affects older women

The peak age for ovarian cancer diagnosis is 75-79 years old, but it can occur at much younger ages too. It is important to be aware of ovarian cancer and the symptoms whatever your age.

To learn more about the symptoms and access resources and a symptom diary see Symptoms of ovarian cancer or call us on 0800 008 7054

Myth 3: Genetic changes which increase the risk of ovarian cancer can only be inherited from mother to daughter

Around 20% of ovarian cancers are associated with a gene change that increases the risk of developing the disease. These gene changes can be inherited from your father or mother.

If possible talk to your family to understand any family history of cancer. Understanding your family history could help assess your risk.

You can call our support line to find out more about family risk factors: 0800 008 7054

Myth 4: Cervical screening detects ovarian cancer

Cervical screening (also known as smear tests) take a small sample of cells from the cervix. The sample is checked for a virus that can cause changes to the cells of the cervix. These tests help to diagnose cervical cancer. The tests do not detect ovarian cancer.

For more information see: Tests for ovarian cancer

Ovacome is the national ovarian cancer support charity for the UK and March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month (OCAM), a vitally important month in raising the profile of ovarian cancer and awareness of the symptoms. The charity is aiming to raise £75k during OCAM to help fund vital support services which support thousands of people affected by the disease each year.

All of Ovacome’s services are free to access, and available to help anyone affected by ovarian cancer including those at risk, friends and family, and healthcare professionals.

Ovacome provides face to face and online events across the UK and provides crucial support through their support service phone line to thousands of people affected by this disease. Support is also available to access in other languages: Support in other languages | Ovacome Ovarian Cancer

The charity receives no government funding and is solely reliant on fundraised income. Anyone wishing to help can donate at www.ovacome.org.uk/donate.