Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology Wins Patient Organisation Award for Ovarian Cancer Awareness

In a significant recognition of advocacy in women's health, the Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO) has been awarded the 'Patient Organisation Project of the Year' at the Irish Healthcare Awards 2024 for its impactful campaign on ovarian cancer awareness. The announcement was made on June 19, 2025, highlighting the ongoing efforts to educate the public about this often-overlooked disease, which remains the leading cause of death among gynaecological cancers in Ireland.

The INGO, a voluntary group comprising 30 of Ireland's foremost gynaecological cancer advocates, utilized various platforms and creative strategies to raise awareness about the symptoms of ovarian cancer, aiming to dispel prevalent myths surrounding the disease. According to research conducted by the organization, four out of five women in Ireland are not confident in identifying the symptoms of ovarian cancer, underscoring the urgent need for education and outreach.

Dr. Sharon O’Toole, the coordinator of INGO, expressed that winning the award serves as a powerful tool for attracting sponsorship and funding for future campaigns. “Because we’re a voluntary organization, we have sought sponsorship for our campaign every year,” she stated. “When you win an award like this, it attracts more attention. It’s a barometer in terms of running a successful campaign.”

The campaign's innovative approach included the introduction of the BEAT acronym—Bloating, Eating Difficulties, Abdominal pain, and Toilet changes—designed to help women easily remember the critical symptoms. Additionally, an artistic collaboration with Brazilian street artist Brutto resulted in a mural on Dublin’s Grafton Street, which serves as a public reminder of the symptoms and encourages women to seek medical advice if they experience any concerns.

Building on the momentum from the previous year, the INGO has also secured media opportunities, including a feature in the prominent RSVP magazine, which further aids in disseminating crucial information about ovarian cancer. Furthermore, they are planning to leverage World Gynaecological Oncology Day on September 20 as another platform for education and outreach.

The significance of this campaign is further highlighted by research from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland, which indicates that early detection significantly improves survival rates for ovarian cancer patients. According to the 2022 report published by the registry, the five-year survival rate for women diagnosed at an early stage is approximately 90%, compared to just 20% when diagnosed at a later stage.

Despite the challenges faced by voluntary organizations in securing funding, the INGO's award-winning campaign illustrates the potential impact of grassroots advocacy in healthcare. As the group continues its efforts, the ongoing collaboration with artists, media, and healthcare professionals is expected to foster greater awareness and potentially reduce the mortality rates associated with ovarian cancer in Ireland.

As the INGO prepares for future initiatives, the need for increased public awareness and education on gynaecological health remains paramount. The organization's commitment to dispelling myths and promoting symptom awareness is a vital step in empowering women to take charge of their health and seek timely medical intervention. The future of ovarian cancer awareness in Ireland hinges on such proactive measures and community engagement, paving the way for a more informed and health-conscious society.