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Doctor's Shock: Ovarian Cancer at 30
22 Feb
Summary
- Gold Coast doctor diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 30.
- Symptoms initially dismissed as cramps and work fatigue.
- Advocating for early detection and better research funding.
Shabnam Gujadhur, a Gold Coast doctor, received an ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2022 shortly after her 30th birthday. Working demanding shifts as an intern in emergency medicine, she initially attributed her symptoms of abdominal pain and intermenstrual bleeding to cramps and fatigue, delaying a doctor's visit.
Following a friend's insistence, she saw a GP. Initial tests suggested an ovarian cyst, and a CT scan recommended monitoring. However, her GP urged removal, a decision that proved life-saving. Surgery to remove what was presumed to be a benign cyst revealed it to be a rare mixed germ cell tumour at Stage 1.
The diagnostic process was complex, taking months due to the tumor's biology. Opting for strict surveillance over chemotherapy after complete surgical removal, Shabnam has had clear scans for nearly four years. Her experience fuels her advocacy for improved funding, early detection research, and better treatment options for ovarian cancer.
Guijadhur’s diagnosis has also brought personal challenges, including reduced fertility due to ovary removal and ongoing health anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and advocating for oneself, sharing a message of hope and resilience for others facing similar battles.
