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Ovarian Cancer

Each year, about 22,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often common and vague, which makes it difficult to diagnose.

There are more than 30 different types of ovarian tumors, which are categorized according to the cell type. Some are benign (noncancerous) and do not spread beyond the ovary. Malignant (cancerous) tumors can spread to other parts of the body.

Currently, there is no effective early detection method for ovarian cancer. It is usually diagnosed in advanced stages, and only about half of women survive longer than five years after diagnosis. For the 25% of ovarian cancers that are found early, the five-year survival rate is greater than 90%.

Studies have shown that prognosis and survival depend largely on how much tumor is left at the time of initial surgery. Patients who have no remaining tumor or with nodules less than one centimeter in diameter have the best chance for cure and long-term survival.

Ovarian Cancer Research

Ovarian cancer continues to be the leading cause of death among gynecologic cancers, primarily because in over 75% of cases, it is not detected until it has already progressed to an advanced stage. Unfortunately, there is no screening or early detection test available and the symptoms are subtle. This year, 22,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over 15,000 women will die.

The Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program was created in 1996 as a critical step toward the goal of eradicating ovarian cancer. The program was the nation’s first formal, comprehensive ovarian cancer research effort to translate basic scientific discoveries into improved therapies and disease management.

Today, the program continues its mission of innovative research into the causes, prevention, detection and treatment of ovarian cancer. A gift of financial support is critical for continued research and educational programs in the community to help women become proactive about their gynecologic health. Collaborative support and funding from foundations such as Callaway Golf Foundation advance the mission of the program.

Donate Online

Fill out our secure Online Donation Form for Ovarian Cancer Research.

Donate by Mail

Print and complete the Mail-In Donation Form (pdf)

Send the form, with your check made out to M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, specifying ovarian cancer research in the memo line to:

The University of Texas
M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
P.O. Box 4486
Houston, TX 77210-4486

Donate by Phone

Call the Development Office at 713-792-3450 or 800-525-5841