September 5 is Teal Day — a day to raise awareness about ovarian cancer. In India, the Teal Warriors, initiated by ovarian cancer survivor Ritu Bedi, will raise awareness at Café Moonshine in New Delhi, where survivors and supporters show encouragement by wearing teal. Money raised from the event will go to CanSupport. Additionally, only for today, check-ups at Jaypee Hospital, Noida and Columbia Asia Hospitals in Gurgaon, Ghaziabad and Patiala, will cost only Rs 100 (more details on Facebook.com/IndiaTealWarriors).
Here are the five most important things you need to know about ovarian cancer:
1. Ovarian cancer is a silent killer, which is why women need to be alert to it. Symptoms are similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is why women and doctors miss it
2. Women with a family history of the disease need to be especially alert; if their mothers, sisters or aunts were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, their risk is doubled.
3. Genetic counselling is a good idea for high-risk women, since genetic testing for susceptibility and taking action if genes are present, can save lives.
4. Get a checkup if symptoms such as stomach problems and urinary symptoms persist beyond a fortnight.
5. Wear teal to show your solidarity to the cause.
Café Moonshine, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm