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National Ovarian Cancer Coalition's Research Commitment

The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) funds comprehensive and impactful research initiatives that align with our goal to further advancement in screening, prevention, treatment, and quality of life for patients and caregivers. With the help of generous donors, we have been able to contribute over two million dollars to advancing ovarian cancer research and clinical projects.

Current Ovarian Cancer Research Initiatives

2022 Research Grant for Early Detection and Quality of Life – Young Investigator Awards

In partnership with the Foundation for Women’s Cancer, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition provides funding for Young Investigator Research Grants, which accelerate the research of young investigators to promote the long-term success of the gynecologic oncology field.

In support of NOCC’s mission, the following awards have been granted 2022-2023:

  1. The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer
  2. The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Quality of Life

Young Investigator Award Recipients

Katherine Esselen, MD

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Quality of Life

Katherine Esselen, MD, MBA

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Evolution of a novel financial navigation program to alleviate financial toxicity for women with gynecologic cancers

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer

Sushmita Gordhandas, MD

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Understanding Decision-Making for Risk-Reducing Surgery: A Women Choosing Surgical Prevention (WISP) Qualitative Study

Teresa Boitano, MD

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Quality of Life

Teresa Boitano, MD

University of Alabama – Birmingham

Using a novel mobile cognitive training application to improve cancer-related cognitive impairment in gynecologic oncology patients

Carrie Langstraat, MD

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Research Grant for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer

Carrie Langstraat, MD

Mayo Clinic

A deep learning algorithm for early detection of ovarian cancer among patients with adnexal lesions

Clinical Trial Fund – NOCC Financial Assistance Program

Clinical trials are the best way to ensure that safe and effective new technologies and medicines can be developed for patients who need them. In partnership with the Patient Advocate Foundation, the NOCC Clinical Trial Fund is available to reduce the barriers associated with ovarian cancer treatment and clinical trial participation. This fund provides each approved patient a one-time $2,500 payment to be applied towards non-medical costs related to enrollment and participation in clinical trials. With this financial support, individuals are more likely to enroll in trials that can help improve outcomes in ovarian cancer treatment.

Past Ovarian Cancer Research Initiatives

Collaborative Research Efforts – Ovarian Cancer Dream Team Research Initiative

Dr. Alan D. D’Andrea M.D.

Dr. Elizabeth M. Swisher M.D.

In 2014, the NOCC became a funding partner for the first-ever Ovarian Cancer Dream Team with Stand Up To Cancer and the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. About 10-20% of ovarian cancer is likely attributable to genetic inheritance. The team, led by Alan D. D’Andrea, MD, and Elizabeth Swisher, MD, focused on the research of DNA gene repair to provide new advancements in treatment therapies for women with ovarian cancer. 

Two significant trials were launched during the team’s time together. The first, WISP (Women choosing Surgical Prevention), is an ongoing study looking at how well surgery works in preventing ovarian cancer in patients with genetic mutations at risk of ovarian cancer. 

The second trial, MAGENTA (Making GENetic Testing Accessible), aimed to improve the availability of genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes to at-risk individuals through an online genetic testing service.

Dr. Laura, Shawver, and Pamela, a clinical trial participant, discussed the results of the MAGENTA Clinical Trial and answered questions from the ovarian cancer community about at-home genetic testing and counseling.

Related Topics

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Mission and vision

We’re committed to making a difference in the lives of women, families and communities touched by ovarian cancer.

History

Learn about NOCC’s courageous path from a grassroot effort to an important national voice in the fight.

Financials

Find links to current and archived financial reports on the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

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