WHEREAS, Ovarian cancer is the most fatal of all female reproductive system cancers; and

WHEREAS, In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimates approximately 20,890 women will receive a new diagnosis for ovarian cancer, and approximately 12,730 women will die from ovarian cancer in the United States; and

WHEREAS, The five-year survival rates for ovarian cancer, by time of diagnosis, are as follows: 93.1 percent for women diagnosed in an early stage, 74.5 percent for women diagnosed in an intermediate stage, and 30.8 percent for women diagnosed in an advanced stage; and

WHEREAS, By the time most patients with ovarian cancer see a doctor, 70 to 80 percent are already at stage 3 or later, meaning the cancer has already begun to spread to the lymph nodes and outside of the pelvis; and

WHEREAS, Approximately 70 percent of the newly diagnosed women are over 55 years of age; and

WHEREAS, Ovarian cancer continues to cast a long and painful shadow over countless families, stealing the lives of mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends far too soon, and leaving in its wake a legacy of loss and grief; and

WHEREAS, Each September, during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we pause to remember those we have lost, honor those who continue to bravely confront this disease, and recommit ourselves to supporting survivors, caregivers, and all those working tirelessly to improve outcomes and raise public awareness of ovarian cancer; and

WHEREAS, Ovarian cancer makes up only 2.5 percent of all female cancer cases, yet it causes 5 percent of cancer deaths due to its low survival rate. Early detection offers the greatest hope for survival, yet ovarian cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose at an early stage. There is no simple and reliable way to screen for this disease, symptoms are often not clear until later stages, and most women are diagnosed without being at high risk; and

WHEREAS, It is essential to actively encourage all women to engage in early preventive care and routine screenings for ovarian cancer. It is equally important that we empower women with the knowledge and confidence to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention when they notice unexplained symptoms such as bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, or urinary urgency, or other symptoms that may otherwise go overlooked; and

WHEREAS, Ovarian cancer not only threatens lives, but also places emotional, physical, and financial burdens on families and communities across our state. This September, our state stands with everyone who has been touched by this disease, and we recognize all those committed to advancing the fight against this cancer through research, advocacy, and quality care. Together, let us renew our commitment to reducing the impact of ovarian cancer and to a future free from cancer in all its forms; now, therefore, be it