September 03, 2024

September Shines a Light on Ovarian Cancer: Experts Emphasize Early Detection

September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this challenging and often difficult-to-detect disease. Efforts to spotlight ovarian cancer are underway nationwide, beginning with a presidential proclamation issued on Friday.

President Joe Biden declared September 2024 as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, calling ovarian cancer "the deadliest of all female reproductive system cancers." In his statement, Biden highlighted the seriousness of the disease, noting that nearly 20,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year alone.

"During National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we honor the memories of all the women we have tragically lost," Biden stated. "We reaffirm our support for all the brave women living with ovarian cancer and all those who have survived it. We also express our gratitude to the loved ones who stand by their side and to the medical professionals and researchers working tirelessly to save lives."

The Importance of Early Detection

One of the most challenging aspects of ovarian cancer is that early detection significantly improves survival rates. According to the National Cancer Institute, if ovarian cancer is detected in its early, localized stages, the five-year survival rate is as high as 91%. However, due to the lack of reliable screening methods for asymptomatic individuals, many cases are diagnosed only after the disease has advanced and spread.

Ovarian cancer does not have specific early symptoms, but common signs include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and urinary symptoms. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often overlooked until a diagnosis has already been made. Advocates stress that increasing awareness of the risks and symptoms is key to improving early detection rates.

Together in Teal: Raising Awareness Nationwide

The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) is leading the charge in raising awareness through its flagship campaign, Together in TEAL. Throughout September, the NOCC will host 11 events across the country, all aimed at saving lives by promoting prevention, funding research, and improving the quality of life for survivors and their caregivers.

In-person events will be held in cities including Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Dallas, Boston, Annapolis (Maryland), West Des Moines (Iowa), Long Island (New York), Orlando (Florida), Wheaton (Illinois), Gilbert (Arizona), and San Marcos (Texas). Virtual events are also planned to broaden participation.

The color teal symbolizes ovarian cancer awareness, and teal ribbons are often used to promote the cause. In one such effort, volunteers will tie teal ribbons around trees in Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood on Labor Day in New York City.

Another significant event is the annual Cathy B. Novinger Butterfly Release for Ovarian Cancer, organized by the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central South Carolina. This event will take place at the State House in Columbia on September 26.

Businesses Join the Fight

Businesses are also stepping up to support ovarian cancer awareness. Creation L, an online fashion brand based in Jacksonville, Florida, announced that it raised $15,000 for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition during August. The company committed to donating $1 from every item sold over a six-day period.

Creation L will also participate in NOCC's Together in TEAL Walk in Orlando on September 28, where Sarina Douzart, the company's merchandising and marketing specialist, will present the donation. Douzart emphasized the company's commitment to raising awareness and funding research, particularly for women over 60, who are most affected by ovarian cancer.

"By partnering with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, we hope to make a significant difference in raising awareness and funding research that can ultimately save lives," Douzart said.

Conclusion

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder of the importance of early detection and the ongoing need for research and support. With nationwide efforts like Together in TEAL and the involvement of businesses and communities, the hope is to increase awareness, promote early diagnosis, and ultimately save lives.