PLANS to launch a project to educate women about ovarian cancer will be discussed today by council leaders.

Councillor Liz Cameron wants Glasgow City Council to join forces with health chiefs to help cut deaths from the so-called 'silent killer'.

Charities say mortality rates could be reduced if more people were aware of the symptoms.

However, a recent survey found only 1% of women in Scotland were confident about recognising symptoms.

Councillor Cameron wants to set up a city-wide education project in partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and cancer charities.

Charities have called on the Scottish Government to spearhead a national campaign to increase symptom awareness.

Currently, because of late diagnosis, only 36% of women survive five years after a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

If caught early, survival rates rise to 70%.

Early symptoms include bloating and pain in the lower abdomen. Symptoms if the cancer has spread include back pain, passing urine more often than usual, bleeding and a change in bowel habits.

Councillor Cameron, a former Lord Provost, said: "The problem is that there is no proper screening.

"I know a lot of GPs need better training to differentiate the symptoms.

"There is a blood test but it's not 100% accurate."

More than 7000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer across the UK each year.

A spokeswoman for NHSGGC said: " Detecting cancer early is a key priority for us and we have a very extensive programme of activity in this area.

"We would be very happy to work with Ms Cameron on a possible new initiative which may raise awareness of ovarian cancer and the importance of detecting this cancer early."

For information on ovarian cancer, go to www.ovarian.org.uk

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk