World Ovarian Cancer Day: How a Global Movement is Transforming Awareness and Action

World Ovarian Cancer Day: How a Global Movement is Transforming Awareness and Action

At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), we believe that awareness leads to action—and action saves lives. In this special episode of Teal Talk – an Ovarian Cancer Podcast, we honor World Ovarian Cancer Day, an international awareness day observed each year on May 8. Through an enlightening conversation with Clara MacKay, CEO of the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, we explore how this global movement began, how far it has come, and how every person—no matter where they live—can make a difference. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, healthcare provider, or advocate, this episode invites you to be part of a growing force for change in the fight against ovarian cancer.

Love what you hear? Subscribe to Teal Talk – An Ovarian Cancer Podcast to hear more real stories, expert insights, and empowering conversations for survivors, caregivers, and advocates.

The origin and evolution of a global movement

World Ovarian Cancer Day began in 2013 as a grassroots idea among passionate advocates who noticed a troubling gap: ovarian cancer had no dedicated awareness day. As Clara MacKay shares,

“It started the way many great initiatives do… a small group of passionate advocates met and decided that ovarian cancer really needed that same kind of focus and attention.”

From that modest beginning—just 30 organizations reaching about 50,000 people—it has grown exponentially. Today, millions across the globe engage in the campaign each year, from policymakers and clinicians to celebrities and patient advocacy organizations. What began as a single day has become a powerful, year-round movement for awareness, education, and equity in ovarian cancer care.

Ovarian cancer awareness isn’t global until it’s local

Despite the rising visibility of ovarian cancer, awareness gaps remain stark. Clara reveals a surprising statistic: in both high- and low-income countries, 26% of women had never heard of ovarian cancer. This isn’t just a public health concern—it’s a call to action.

Low health literacy, especially around gynecologic health, is a major barrier. In some languages, there isn’t even a word for “ovary.” Misconceptions persist, such as believing a Pap smear can detect ovarian cancer—a myth dispelled time and again by advocates and healthcare providers.

But as Clara points out,

“Awareness and empowerment… is actually driven locally.”

Whether it’s through a school, church group, or a workplace, local conversations spark change. The World Ovarian Cancer Coalition encourages individuals and organizations to mobilize communities, share facts, and normalize dialogue about symptoms and risks. Men, too, play an important role—many notice symptoms in their loved ones first, and their support often gives survivors the confidence to seek medical answers.

What gives us hope

Amid challenges, there is powerful momentum. Clara’s optimism shines as she reflects on the global advocacy community, the progress in diagnostics, and the emerging research aimed at improving treatment and outcomes.

“We’re at a very important time in the ovarian cancer evolution,” she says. “If we fast forward eight years, I believe we’ll have made significant inroads.”

That progress isn’t just about science—it’s about human connection and shared mission. It’s about survivors who speak up, caregivers who show up, and organizations like NOCC that lead the charge to make sure no one faces ovarian cancer alone.

Conclusion

World Ovarian Cancer Day reminds us that awareness is not bound by borders—and neither is hope. From its humble beginnings to the global movement it is today, this annual day of unity continues to bring light to an often-overlooked disease. Whether you’re sharing information, telling your story, or supporting a loved one, your voice matters. And together, our voices are powerful.

Let this episode inspire you to act, educate, and advocate—not just on May 8, but every day.