Liz Truss has become a champion for the Target Ovarian Cancer charity in a bid to reduce the death toll brought on by the disease.
The South West Norfolk MP has been inspired by the campaigning and fundraising work of ovarian cancer survivor and Downham resident Diane Boothby, and has pledged to help raise awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms.
She met Diane and fellow Downham resident Eve Tawfick in Parliament this week ahead of World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day, which takes place next Wednesday.
Ms Truss said: "Diane's campaigning and work to support others since her own diagnosis has been nothing short of inspiring and I am proud to support her and the vital work of Target Ovarian Cancer.
"The fact is that each year over 7,400 women in the UK are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over 4,000 women die from the disease. The more we can do to raise awareness of the symptoms, the earlier women can get diagnosed and treated, and we can get that death toll reduced."
Diane has raised more than £6,000 for Target Ovarian Cancer so far.
She said: "I am delighted to have Liz as a Target Ovarian Cancer MP champion.
“It is vital to get MPs on board to raise awareness of the disease and get the message out to people that spotting the symptoms early is critical for people to get effective treatment and positive outcomes."
Ovarian cancer symptoms include:
\- Persistent abdominal distension (bloating)
\- Early satiety and/or loss of appetite
\- Pelvic or abdominal pain
\- Urinary urgency and/or frequency
\- Unexplained weight loss and/or fatigue
\- Changes in bowel habit
Target Ovarian Cancer's nurse-led support line provides confidential information, support and signposting for anyone concerned about ovarian cancer and is open 9am-5pm from Monday to Friday on 020 7923 5475.