During a recent government meeting, officials recognized September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the critical need for increased awareness and education surrounding this often-overlooked disease. A proclamation was read by a representative, honoring Rachel Putman, a survivor and advocate for ovarian cancer awareness.

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 19,680 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year, making it the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. The proclamation emphasized the challenges of early detection, noting that vague symptoms often lead to diagnoses at stage 3 or later, when the cancer has already spread beyond the pelvis and into the lymph nodes.

Statistics shared during the meeting revealed a stark contrast in survival rates: while the five-year survival rate for stage 1 ovarian cancer exceeds 90%, only 15% of cases are diagnosed at this early stage. In contrast, the survival rate for stage 3 drops to below 30%.

The meeting underscored the importance of awareness and education as vital tools for improving early detection and survival rates. Medical specialists across the country are currently engaged in clinical trials and research, but the call for public awareness remains urgent.