Latest news with #WorldOvarianCancerDay
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New Global Ovarian Cancer Research Consortium Joins Forces with Microsoft's AI For Good Lab To Launch First-Of-Its-Kind $1M+ Global Grant To Improve Survival Rates
Four leading ovarian cancer research charities from four countries are funding a new AI Accelerator Grant in partnership with Microsoft's AI for Good Lab to supercharge the next cancer research breakthrough TORONTO, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ - Today marks World Ovarian Cancer Day and the launch of the Global Ovarian Cancer Research Consortium — a first-of-its-kind alliance uniting four leading ovarian cancer research organizations across the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Together, the Consortium is announcing its inaugural initiative: a game-changing $1 million grant, with an additional $1 million in compute support from Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, to address the global challenge in ovarian cancer survival rates. Globally, 324,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 207,000 women die from the disease each year. The Consortium's groundbreaking AI Accelerator Grant is a bold new effort that will ignite a wave of innovation in AI-powered ovarian cancer research — bringing hope, and potentially life-saving breakthroughs, to women around the world. The Consortium, formed in 2024, brings together leading ovarian cancer organizations from the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Their mission: to combine forces, resources, and determination to accelerate progress where it's desperately needed. Now, with the support of Microsoft's technology and expertise, the Consortium is poised to rewrite the future of ovarian cancer care. Progress in ovarian cancer research is lagging dangerously behind other diseases. It's predicted that by 2050 the number of women around the world diagnosed with ovarian cancer will rise over 55% to 503,448 and the number of women dying from ovarian cancer is projected to increase to 350,956 each year. "The complexity of ovarian cancer, with its vague symptoms and many types, makes it difficult to diagnose early and treat at advanced stages. Yet these are accomplishments we know we need to save lives. This is why the $1 million collaborative investment in AI-powered ovarian cancer research is critically needed," shares Tania Vrionis, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada. "Through this AI Accelerator Grant, we can harness AI to understand ovarian cancer and its impact on women faster than ever. Our global philanthropic partnership, support from Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, and international research collaboration are key to accelerating change. After decades without real progress, women facing ovarian cancer deserve breakthroughs as quickly as we can make them." AI is already revolutionizing cancer diagnoses—from breast to brain, skin to thyroid—with stunning advances. But ovarian cancer has yet to feel the full power of this transformation. That changes now. With this urgent call to action, the Consortium is summoning the world's brightest minds to harness AI and tip the scales toward survival. "When I heard my treatment options, I was not happy. To treat my cancer, they had to remove my uterus, my ovaries, and I knew I could no longer have a child on my own. But I also knew that I wanted to live so I had no choice," shares Julia, a 38-year-old Canadian woman diagnosed with advanced low-grade serous ovarian cancer, a rare form of the disease. Despite undergoing life-altering treatment options when diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, women still face a high chance of their cancer returning, just as Julia's did in 2023. To improve their treatment options and disease outcomes, innovative research is urgently required. "We need to make ovarian cancer a top priority. It doesn't have the same visibility and awareness that other cancers have but women like me have limited options when facing the disease," adds Julia. "The truth is that change will only happen if research funding increases in a significant way. Ovarian Cancer Canada has helped me a lot through my journey. They support me, share information, and most importantly, with research investments like this, they gave me what I was missing most - hope." Researchers will be asked to form teams that will include a representative from each of the four countries to compete for the new grant. The successful grant will support any area of research that will improve survival rates. It must have a multi-jurisdictional team from across the grant-funded countries and a multidisciplinary team, including an AI expert. To learn more about the grant, visit Microsoft is generously partnering on this grant to donate up to $1m of in-kind Azure compute credits to the successful project through Microsoft's AI for Good Lab-partnership with OCRA. Microsoft's cloud computing power will enable the successful applicants to accelerate progress against ovarian cancer. "New discoveries are needed to find lifesaving treatments for ovarian cancer, a cancer that tragically still has a low survival rate. Equipping leading researchers around the globe with powerful AI tools and computing resources will help accelerate their critical work, hopefully leading to breakthroughs that save women's lives. Microsoft's AI for Good Lab is proud to support ovarian cancer research through this grant." said Juan Lavista Ferres, Microsoft Chief Data Scientist and Director of Microsoft's AI for Good Lab. ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER CANADAWe are the only national health charity in Canada focused on uncovering key discoveries that can change the reality of an ovarian cancer diagnosis. We are building research capacity, unlocking insights into rarer forms of the disease, addressing urgent needs, and bringing hope to people across the country. After decades without real change, improved outcomes are finally possible. The 3,000 Canadians diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year deserve our attention . They deserve our focus on demanding action, delivering change, and transforming their lives. We will not rest until women are able to live freely, fully, and uninhibited by ovarian cancer. Towards this goal, we are relentless. Learn more at SOURCE Ovarian Cancer Canada View original content to download multimedia:
Time of India
11-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Ovarian cancer: Experts advocate caution
Dharwad: Ovarian Cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women in India and it often goes undiagnosed until later stages due to vague symptoms, said consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Komal Revankar at a function on 'Science of Survival: Fight Against Ovarian Cancer' organised by the department of Applied Genetics at Karnatak University to mark World Ovarian Cancer Day, she said genetic risk factors like BRCA mutations and Lynch syndrome, as well as lifestyle factors such as obesity, hormone therapy, and late menopause were the reasons for ovarian cancer. She explained that treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and precision Komal emphasised the importance of early consultation and genetic testing for high-risk groups to improve detection and outcomes. Professor Pramod Gai, director of Karnatak Institute for DNA Research (KIDNAR) in his presidential remarks emphasised the role of genetic screening in preventing hereditary disorders and encouraged continued focus on academic also stressed the need for improved infrastructure, interdisciplinary research, and enhanced student training. Chairman of Applied Genetics department Aravind Mulimani highlighted the importance of early detection and awareness in ovarian cancer. He emphasised the role of genetic research in advancing cancer treatments and shared the department's commitment to promoting health education and scientific progress. Y Ramesh Babu and Suresh Arakera also spoke. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Mother's Day wishes , messages , and quotes !
NZ Herald
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NZ Herald
On The Up: Northland ovarian cancer patient gifts song to raise awareness
She recently travelled to Japan for cell-based immune therapy to give her the best chance of fighting the cancer. Fundraisers in her Paihia community helped with the costs. Smith, now 34, is exploring the next steps in her treatment and said she feels lucky to be feeling well. But there have been times in her cancer fight when she was in a dark place and feeling very alone. She ended up writing the song Dig Deeper about her journey, encouraging people to find inner strength. Smith is donating the song to the Ovarian Cancer Foundation NZ, which has supported her in her journey. On Thursday, which was World Ovarian Cancer Day, Smith and her supporters officially launched the song and its music video at Zane Grey's in Paihia. She hopes it will also raise awareness of ovarian cancer, which is referred to as a silent killer because women often do not know they have it until it has spread through their body. Smith wants to encourage Māori and Pasifika women, in particular, to look for symptoms and get tested, as they have much higher rates of ovarian cancer than other ethnicities. 'I don't know if what I do is helpful but I'm Māori and I have ovarian cancer. Maybe not being afraid to talk about it is a start,' she said. 'When I wrote Dig Deeper it was one of the hardest parts of my life. It's not just my story but every woman with ovarian cancer.' Smith said she has been lucky to have the support of the community, including those who helped create a professional song: music producer Erick Gerber, videographer Ash Boyd and Philippa Kriz who lent venue Willow's Ranch for the music video. Dig Deeper is now available on YouTube for people to enjoy, with encouragement to donate to the Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Smith said it has been nice to spend her time on something so positive. 'I felt like I wanted to give back. It's not just for me but for every woman fighting ovarian cancer.' She also wanted to thank those who ran a fundraising event to get her to Japan: Haylee Wilkes, Steph Godsiff, Jules DeRosa and Wendy Hopkinson.
News18
08-05-2025
- Health
- News18
World Ovarian Cancer Day: Symptoms, Treatment And Who's At Higher Risk
Last Updated: While the exact cause of ovarian cancer remains unknown, family history, hormonal therapies, and genetic mutations may increase the likelihood of its development Cancer is a deadly disease that affects millions of people every year. Over time, it has become more severe and common, now affecting young people in their 30s as well. Cancer occurs when cells in any part of the body begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, and it can develop in any organ or tissue. Women are particularly vulnerable to certain types of cancer, one of which is ovarian cancer. This life-threatening condition claims the lives of many women each year. World Ovarian Cancer Day is observed annually on May 8. On this significant day, News18 spoke to doctors to understand how this disease can be detected early and what preventive measures can be taken. Dr Dimple Bordoloi, Head of the Laparoscopic Gynaecology Department at Mash Manas Hospital, Noida, told News18 that ovarian cancer is one of the most fatal cancers affecting women. It begins when the cells in the ovaries start growing abnormally. In the early stages, ovarian cancer typically presents no symptoms. However, as it progresses, symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, irregular periods, unexplained weight changes, changes in urinary or bowel habits, constipation, fatigue, and dizziness may appear, usually during stage 3 or 4. Dr Bordoloi explained that while the exact cause of ovarian cancer is still unknown, several risk factors may contribute to its development. Age is a significant factor, the risk increases as a woman gets older. A family history of ovarian cancer, hormonal therapies, and genetic mutations can also elevate the risk. If detected early, ovarian cancer can be treated effectively. Treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are available and can offer relief and improve outcomes. Dr Priya Bansal, Consultant in the Gynaecology Oncosurgery Department at Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, said that ovarian cancer has a high mortality rate largely because it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. Since early symptoms are rare or non-specific, the disease often goes undetected until stage 3 or 4. If diagnosed at stage 3, a woman's five-year survival rate is only around 40 per cent. At stage 4, the survival rate drops to less than 20 per cent. Early detection significantly improves the chances of survival. Who Are At More Risk? Dr Priya noted that women who have never had children are at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Other risk factors include endometriosis, complex ovarian masses, breast cancer, or a family history of ovarian cancer. To reduce the risk, women are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow a balanced diet. Regular medical check-ups are also essential. Some studies suggest that the use of oral contraceptives may lower the risk of ovarian cancer. First Published:
Cision Canada
08-05-2025
- Health
- Cision Canada
New Global Ovarian Cancer Research Consortium Joins Forces with Microsoft's AI For Good Lab To Launch First-Of-Its-Kind $1M+ Global Grant To Improve Survival Rates Français
Four leading ovarian cancer research charities from four countries are funding a new AI Accelerator Grant in partnership with Microsoft's AI for Good Lab to supercharge the next cancer research breakthrough TORONTO, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ - Today marks World Ovarian Cancer Day and the launch of the Global Ovarian Cancer Research Consortium — a first-of-its-kind alliance uniting four leading ovarian cancer research organizations across the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Together, the Consortium is announcing its inaugural initiative: a game-changing $1 million grant, with an additional $1 million in compute support from Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, to address the global challenge in ovarian cancer survival rates. Globally, 324,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 207,000 women die from the disease each year. The Consortium's groundbreaking AI Accelerator Grant is a bold new effort that will ignite a wave of innovation in AI-powered ovarian cancer research — bringing hope, and potentially life-saving breakthroughs, to women around the world. The Consortium, formed in 2024, brings together leading ovarian cancer organizations from the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Their mission: to combine forces, resources, and determination to accelerate progress where it's desperately needed. Now, with the support of Microsoft's technology and expertise, the Consortium is poised to rewrite the future of ovarian cancer care. Progress in ovarian cancer research is lagging dangerously behind other diseases. It's predicted that by 2050 the number of women around the world diagnosed with ovarian cancer will rise over 55% to 503,448 and the number of women dying from ovarian cancer is projected to increase to 350,956 each year. " The complexity of ovarian cancer, with its vague symptoms and many types, makes it difficult to diagnose early and treat at advanced stages. Yet these are accomplishments we know we need to save lives. This is why the $1 million collaborative investment in AI-powered ovarian cancer research is critically needed," shares Tania Vrionis, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada. " Through this AI Accelerator Grant, we can harness AI to understand ovarian cancer and its impact on women faster than ever. Our global philanthropic partnership, support from Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, and international research collaboration are key to accelerating change. After decades without real progress, women facing ovarian cancer deserve breakthroughs as quickly as we can make them." AI is already revolutionizing cancer diagnoses—from breast to brain, skin to thyroid—with stunning advances. But ovarian cancer has yet to feel the full power of this transformation. That changes now. With this urgent call to action, the Consortium is summoning the world's brightest minds to harness AI and tip the scales toward survival. " When I heard my treatment options, I was not happy. To treat my cancer, they had to remove my uterus, my ovaries, and I knew I could no longer have a child on my own. But I also knew that I wanted to live so I had no choice," shares Julia, a 38-year-old Canadian woman diagnosed with advanced low-grade serous ovarian cancer, a rare form of the disease. Despite undergoing life-altering treatment options when diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, women still face a high chance of their cancer returning, just as Julia's did in 2023. To improve their treatment options and disease outcomes, innovative research is urgently required. " We need to make ovarian cancer a top priority. It doesn't have the same visibility and awareness that other cancers have but women like me have limited options when facing the disease," adds Julia."The truth is that change will only happen if research funding increases in a significant way. Ovarian Cancer Canada has helped me a lot through my journey. They support me, share information, and most importantly, with research investments like this, they gave me what I was missing most - hope." Researchers will be asked to form teams that will include a representative from each of the four countries to compete for the new grant. The successful grant will support any area of research that will improve survival rates. It must have a multi-jurisdictional team from across the grant-funded countries and a multidisciplinary team, including an AI expert. To learn more about the grant, visit Microsoft is generously partnering on this grant to donate up to $1m of in-kind Azure compute credits to the successful project through Microsoft's AI for Good Lab-partnership with OCRA. Microsoft's cloud computing power will enable the successful applicants to accelerate progress against ovarian cancer. " New discoveries are needed to find lifesaving treatments for ovarian cancer, a cancer that tragically still has a low survival rate. Equipping leading researchers around the globe with powerful AI tools and computing resources will help accelerate their critical work, hopefully leading to breakthroughs that save women's lives. Microsoft's AI for Good Lab is proud to support ovarian cancer research through this grant." said Juan Lavista Ferres, Microsoft Chief Data Scientist and Director of Microsoft's AI for Good Lab. ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER CANADA We are the only national health charity in Canada focused on uncovering key discoveries that can change the reality of an ovarian cancer diagnosis. We are building research capacity, unlocking insights into rarer forms of the disease, addressing urgent needs, and bringing hope to people across the country. After decades without real change, improved outcomes are finally possible. The 3,000 Canadians diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year deserve our attention . They deserve our focus on demanding action, delivering change, and transforming their lives. We will not rest until women are able to live freely, fully, and uninhibited by ovarian cancer. Towards this goal, we are relentless. Learn more at
