Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Recognized by Senate

On August 1, the Senate passed, by unanimous consent, a resolution (S. Res. 537) supporting Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Sponsored by Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), the resolution contains a number of findings, including:

• Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers;
• The mortality rate for ovarian cancer has not significantly decreased since the “War on Cancer” was declared, more than 40 years ago;
• All women are at risk for ovarian cancer, and 90 percent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer do not have a family history that puts them at higher risk;
• The Pap test is sensitive and specific to the early detection of cervical cancer, but not to ovarian cancer;
• Many people are unaware that the symptoms of ovarian cancer often include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, urinary symptoms, and several other symptoms that are easily confused with other diseases;
• In June 2007, the first national consensus statement on ovarian cancer symptoms was developed to provide consistency in describing symptoms to make it easier for women to learn and remember the symptoms;
• Awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer by women and health care providers can lead to a quicker diagnosis; and
• September 2012 should be designated as “National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month” to increase the awareness of the public regarding the cancer.