September Is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: What Every Woman Needs to Know

WYNNEWOOD, Pa., Sept. 2, 2011 — As a leading cause of death among women, ovarian cancer is known as a “silent killer.”  Rarely detected early, when it is more easily treated, ovarian cancer strikes over 20,000 women each year. It is estimated that over 15,000 women in America die each year from the disease.

In the Philadelphia area, the Lorraine J. D’Emilio Foundation was started in 2011 in memory and honor of Lorraine J. D’Emilio. The foundation focuses on helping and supporting women with gynecologic cancers through education and support, while fostering a sense a volunteerism in the community. (For information or to make a donation, visit the foundation’s website at: https://www.ljdfoundation.org.)

As a cancer specialist, surgeon, and spokesperson for the foundation, Dr. David O. Holtz emphasizes that early detection is a key to successful treatment. Because ovarian cancer symptoms are so subtle and easily confused with symptoms of harmless conditions, the disease often goes undiagnosed until its later stages.

Dr. Holtz can reveal what every woman should know about early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer. Invite him to answer:

• What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?
• Which tests are typically ordered for diagnosis?
• How can women improve their chances of early diagnosis?
• What factors contribute to ovarian cancer?
• How can women reduce their risk of developing this disease?

CREDENTIALS: David O. Holtz, M.D. is board certified in gynecologic oncology and obstetrics and gynecology. He is on staff at Lankenau Hospital and Paoli Hospital. Dr. Holtz specializes in treating uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, peritoneal cancer, and vaginal cancer. He received his B.A. from Princeton University and his M.D. from Jefferson Medical College.