May 8

World Ovarian Cancer Day

Join the fight for a world without ovarian cancer on World Ovarian Cancer Day - show your support and raise awareness!

Yearly Date

May 8

Observed

Introduction

World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8 marks an important occasion to raise awareness and understanding of this serious disease. It's a day dedicated to honoring the lives of those affected by ovarian cancer, while also raising funds for much-needed research and treatments. Through education and advocacy, we can help spread the word about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, which include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly and needing to urinate often. By increasing knowledge about this disease, we can work together to make sure that everyone affected receives the care they need.

World Ovarian Cancer Day Timeline

1950s

Established Ovarian Cancer's Symptoms

In the 1950s, the common symptoms of ovarian cancer like bloating and abdominal pain were first recognized by medical professionals.

1960s

First Ovarian Cancer Charities

The first charities dedicated to ovarian cancer were established around this time, paving the way for more focused support and research.

1971

Cancer Act Signed

President Nixon signed the National Cancer Act into law, making research into all types of cancers, including ovarian, a national priority.

1985

BRCA Gene Discovery

Scientists discovered the BRCA gene mutation, which greatly increases a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer.

2004

Bevacizumab Approval

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Bevacizumab, a type of chemotherapy, for treatment of ovarian cancer.

2013

First World Ovarian Cancer Day

World Ovarian Cancer Day was held for the first time on May 8, 2013 to raise public awareness about this deadly disease.

How to Celebrate World Ovarian Cancer Day

1 Donate to a charity

Make a donation to a charity that supports ovarian cancer research and services for those affected by the disease. Every bit helps!

2 Organize a fundraising event

Organize a fundraising event with your friends and family in order to support the charities that are working to reduce the impact of ovarian cancer. You could have a bake sale, car wash, raffle, or auction.

3 Participate in an awareness walk

Join an ovarian cancer awareness walk in your area or organize your own. Spread the word about the disease and encourage people to get involved.

4 Wear teal

The color teal is used to represent ovarian cancer awareness. Wear teal clothing or accessories on World Ovarian Cancer Day and you'll be showing your support for the cause.

5 Educate yourself and others

Take some time to learn more about ovarian cancer so that you can help spread awareness and educate others about the disease. There are many resources available online.

Why World Ovarian Cancer Day is Important

Raises awareness

World Ovarian Cancer Day is an important event that helps to raise awareness about the disease. By bringing attention to the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of ovarian cancer, we can help educate women and their families on how to protect themselves. This in turn can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Supports research

World Ovarian Cancer Day provides an opportunity to raise funds that can be used to support research into new treatments and therapies for this devastating disease. With more research, scientists and doctors may be able to find a cure or develop more effective methods of treating ovarian cancer sooner than later.

Unites people around a cause

World Ovarian Cancer Day brings together people from all walks of life - survivors, patients, family members, and supporters alike - to unite under a common cause. The importance of raising awareness about this disease cannot be overstated - it is only when we come together and share our stories that we can make real progress in the fight against ovarian cancer.