World Ovarian Cancer Day (May 8th)
Each year on May 8th, the global community unites for World Ovarian Cancer Day—a powerful reminder that awareness, early recognition, and access to care can change lives. Established in 2013, this international day of action brings together more than 200 organisations worldwide to raise awareness, amplify patient voices, and improve outcomes for women affected by ovarian cancer.
At Hunter Rehab Hub, a specialist cancer rehabilitation clinic located in Newcastle, this day is also an opportunity to highlight something equally important: what happens after diagnosis and treatment. Recovery does not end when treatment finishes—this is where cancer rehabilitation plays a vital role.
Understanding Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumour that develops in one or both ovaries. The most common form—epithelial ovarian cancer—accounts for around 90% of cases. Despite advances in treatment, ovarian cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to detect early. Symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions, which contributes to later-stage diagnoses.
Common symptoms may include:
- Persistent bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Fatigue or unexplained weight changes
Because these symptoms are subtle and easily overlooked, awareness is critical. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Ovarian Cancer in Australia: Why Awareness Matters
In Australia, ovarian cancer continues to have a significant impact:
- Approximately 1,929 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2026
- Around 1,061 deaths are projected in the same year
- The 5-year survival rate is about 49%
These statistics highlight a clear need for:
- Earlier detection
- Better access to care
- Stronger support systems during and after treatment
World Ovarian Cancer Day exists to address exactly these gaps—ensuring that no woman is left behind.
Beyond Treatment: The Importance of Cancer Rehabilitation
Cancer treatment—whether surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy—can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Many people expect to “bounce back” after treatment, but recovery is often more complex.
This is where cancer rehabilitation becomes essential.
What is cancer rehabilitation?
Cancer rehabilitation is a specialised approach to care that helps individuals:
- Restore strength and physical function
- Manage fatigue and pain
- Improve mobility and independence
- Address emotional and psychological wellbeing
- Return to daily life, work, and meaningful activities
Research increasingly shows that rehabilitation can significantly improve quality of life and long-term outcomes for cancer survivors.
Common Challenges After Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Women recovering from ovarian cancer treatment may experience:
- Cancer-related fatigue
- Reduced strength and endurance
- Pelvic and abdominal weakness
- Lymphoedema (swelling)
- Neuropathy (nerve-related symptoms)
- Anxiety, depression, or fear of recurrence
Without the right support, these challenges can persist and impact long-term health.
How Hunter Rehab Hub Supports Ovarian Cancer Recovery in Newcastle
At Hunter Rehab Hub, our physiotherapist-led cancer rehabilitation service is tailored, supportive, and grounded in evidence-based care. Based in Newcastle, we work with individuals at all stages of their cancer journey—from diagnosis through to post-treatment recovery—to help restore function, minimise treatment side effects, and improve quality of life.
Our key areas of support include:
1. Individualised Physiotherapy
Our physiotherapists provide personalised assessment and treatment plans to address the physical impacts of cancer treatment.
This may include:
- Post-surgical rehabilitation (including abdominal and pelvic surgery)
- Pain management and movement restoration
- Improving mobility, flexibility, and physical function
- Guidance for safe return to daily activities and exercise
2. Cancer-Related Fatigue Management
Fatigue is one of the most common and persistent side effects of cancer treatment. We help patients:
- Gradually rebuild energy levels
- Implement pacing strategies
- Balance activity and rest effectively
- Improve overall endurance and participation in daily life
3. Strength and Functional Reconditioning
Cancer treatment can lead to muscle loss, deconditioning, and reduced physical capacity. Our physiotherapy programs focus on:
- Rebuilding strength and physical resilience
- Improving functional movement
- Supporting independence in everyday tasks
4. Lymphoedema Assessment and Management
We provide comprehensive physiotherapist-led support for lymphoedema, which can occur following cancer treatment, particularly where lymph nodes have been removed.
In gynaecological cancers such as ovarian cancer, lymphoedema more commonly affects the lower limbs, pelvis, or genital region due to disruption of lymphatic pathways in the abdominal and pelvic areas.
Our approach includes:
- Detailed assessment and early identification of swelling or fluid changes
- Education on risk reduction and long-term self-management strategies
- Manual lymphatic drainage and other manual therapy techniques where appropriate
- Prescription and guidance on compression garments
- Exercise programs to support lymphatic flow and circulation
- Skin care advice to reduce the risk of infection (such as cellulitis)
Early intervention is key. With the right management, lymphoedema can be effectively controlled, helping to minimise progression and maintain function and comfort.
5. Balance, Mobility, and Falls Prevention
Treatment side effects such as weakness or neuropathy can increase falls risk. We address this through:
- Balance and coordination training
- Gait and mobility retraining
- Falls prevention strategies to support confidence and safety
6. Adjunctive Therapies for Neurological Symptoms
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a type of peripheral neuropathy where damage to the peripheral nerves causes neurological symptoms such as weakness, burning, tingling, numbness, and sensitivity to touch. CIPN is a common side effect arising from the use of some chemotherapy drugs for the treatment of cancer. For many cancer patients, CIPN can significantly affect quality of life both during and after treatment.
As part of a holistic conservative management approach, we may incorporate adjunctive therapies such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to:
- Help modulate pain and nerve sensitivity
- Support tissue healing and nerve function
- Complement physiotherapy and exercise-based rehabilitation
These therapies are used alongside active rehabilitation to optimise outcomes and improve comfort during recovery.
7. Holistic, Patient-Centred Care
Every person’s cancer treatment experience is unique. Our physiotherapists take a holistic approach, focusing on:
- Individual goals and meaningful outcomes
- Ongoing support and monitoring across all stages of recovery
- Empowering patients with education and self-management tools
At Hunter Rehab Hub, our goal is to help individuals move beyond cancer treatment with greater strength, confidence, and independence—supporting not just recovery, but long-term wellbeing.
Why Early Rehabilitation Matters
Starting rehabilitation early—before, during or soon after treatment—can:
- Prevent long-term complications
- Improve physical recovery
- Reduce hospital re-admissions
- Enhance overall quality of life
It’s not just about recovery—it’s about rebuilding confidence and reclaiming life after cancer.
Taking Action This World Ovarian Cancer Day
World Ovarian Cancer Day is a reminder to:
- Learn the symptoms and listen to your body
- Encourage open conversations about women’s health
- Support those going through diagnosis and treatment
- Recognise the importance of recovery and rehabilitation
Awareness saves lives – supporting recovery can change lives.
Final Thoughts
Ovarian cancer does not end with treatment—and neither should care.
At Hunter Rehab Hub, cancer rehabilitation bridges the gap between surviving and truly recovering. Through expert guidance, personalised care, and a commitment to long-term wellbeing, individuals are supported every step of the way.
This May 8th, let’s not only raise awareness—but also advocate for complete cancer care, from diagnosis through to recovery.
If you are based in Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie or the greater Hunter region, and are preparing for, undergoing or recovering from treatment for ovarian cancer, our team are here to support you!
Contact us on 0480 604 578, fill out the online enquiry form on our website, or book in for an initial assessment online.
References
- Ovarian Cancer Australia. World Ovarian Cancer Day. Available at: www.ovariancancer.net.au
- Cancer Australia. Ovarian Cancer in Australia – Statistics. Available at: www.canceraustralia.gov.au
- Cancer Council Australia. Ovarian Cancer Overview. Available at: www.cancer.org.au
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Cancer-Related Fatigue Guidelines.
- Stout NL, et al. (2020). A prospective surveillance model for rehabilitation for women with breast cancer. Cancer.
- Silver JK, Baima J. (2013). Cancer prehabilitation: an opportunity to decrease treatment-related morbidity. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.
- Hayes SC, et al. (2019). Exercise for cancer survivors: current evidence and future directions.
Disclaimer
This content is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individualised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about symptoms or your health, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
