World Ovarian Cancer Day takes place on Friday, 8th May 2026. On this day, patient organisations, healthcare professionals, and advocates around the world unite to raise awareness of ovarian cancer, improve understanding of symptoms, support women affected by the disease, and highlight the urgent need for earlier diagnosis, as ovarian cancer continues to be one of the most challenging cancers to detect early.

The Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO) is a voluntary coordination body of over 30 of Ireland’s leading gynaecological cancer campaigners, researchers, and patient advocates. Committed to educating the public on prevention, symptoms, early diagnosis, and treatment, INGO launches an annual campaign each year to coincide with World Ovarian Cancer Day.

 

INGO has released new research which reveals significant gaps in awareness and understanding of ovarian cancer symptoms among women in Ireland. Less than one in three women (29%) feel confident they would recognise the symptoms of ovarian cancer, and only 2% of women are aware of the B.E.A.T acronym, which represents the key symptoms of ovarian cancer:

Bloating that is persistent and doesn’t come and goEating less and feeling full more quicklyAbdominal and pelvic pain you feel most daysToilet changes in urination or bowel habits

If these symptoms occur frequently, are persistent, and represent a change from what is normal for someone, medical advice should be sought. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, making awareness and timely action critical. The clear message is that if a woman experiences any of these symptoms for three weeks or more, she should contact her GP. 

The research also underlines disparities in recognition of individual symptoms. The majority of women recognise abdominal or pelvic pain (86%) as a symptom of ovarian cancer, followed by persistent bloating (67%), and changes in toilet habits (64%). The least recognised BEAT symptom is eating less and feeling full more quickly (32%), which highlights a critical knowledge gap in symptom recognition overall.

Confusion around the national screening programme, CervicalCheck remains a concern. While 74% of women correctly identify CervicalCheck as screening for risk of cervical cancer, 19% believe it covers all gynaecological cancers. This ongoing misunderstanding is significant, as there is no screening programme for ovarian cancer, highlighting the importance of symptom awareness and prompt action.

Annually, approximately 400[i] women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and almost 300[ii] women die from this disease in the Republic of Ireland. In Northern Ireland, almost 204[iii] are diagnosed and 120[iii] women die. Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women in Ireland, after lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.

This year’s theme for World Ovarian Cancer Day is #NoWomanLeftBehind which promotes the urgent need to ensure that all women, regardless of geography, socio-economic background, or access to healthcare, have the knowledge, support, and resources to recognise ovarian cancer symptoms and seek timely care.

Minister Mary Butler, Government Chief Whip & Minister for Mental Health supports this year’s World Ovarian Cancer Day campaign with INGO and says:

 

“World Ovarian Cancer Day is an important opportunity to remind women that knowing the symptoms of ovarian cancer can save lives. The recognition of persistent changes in your body and acting on them early is essential. It is vital to reinforce this key message: know the signs, stay alert to certain physical changes, and seek early medical advice if have any concerns.”

 

Ms. Claire Thompson, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist in the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital and Rotunda Hospital says: “Although treatments for ovarian cancer are constantly improving, the challenge remains that 3 out of 4 women are diagnosed when the cancer has already started to spread. There is currently no screening test so if you experience symptoms, please attend your GP or health care provider as soon as possible.”

Rachel McKeon, Chairperson and Co-Founder of OvaCare says “I see every day how vital early awareness is for women and their families. World Ovarian Cancer Day reminds us that knowing the symptoms and accessing timely, equitable care can change outcomes. Our mission is clear: no woman should face ovarian cancer alone, and no woman should ever be left behind.”

Bridget Carr, Patient Advocate says “Every woman in Ireland deserves to know the signs of ovarian cancer, yet too often, they are overlooked. Listen to your body, notice persistent changes, and seek medical advice if you experience the B.E.A.T. symptoms. If you feel unheard, advocate for yourself and ask, ‘Could this be ovarian cancer?’ Speaking up could be the moment that saves your life.”

The BEAT Bench: Art Meets Awareness

To mark World Ovarian Cancer Day 2026, the INGO, coordinated by Dr. Sharon O’Toole, Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute, has commissioned a striking new art installation by Chloe Mowlds of the Minaw Collective.

The BEAT Bench is a vibrant, functional piece of public art designed to spark conversation and raise awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms. The installation was officially unveiled yesterday, 5th May, at Dundrum Town by special guest Miriam O’Callaghan.

Set to run from Tuesday 5th to Friday 8th May, the BEAT Bench will be positioned in a high-footfall area in Dundrum Town, encouraging shoppers to take a seat, reflect, and engage with lifesaving information about ovarian cancer symptoms. The activation will be supported by on-site volunteers and QR-coded materials linking to key awareness resources.

At the installation unveiling, Amy Nolan, Director of Clinical Affairs, Irish Cancer Society said “Ireland has one of Europe’s highest ovarian cancer mortality rates. Approximately 400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer annually, with most cases in women over 50 years of age. The INGO’s latest research highlights that only 29% of women in Ireland are confident they would recognise the symptoms of ovarian cancer – resulting in their delay to seek care. 75% of patients present with late-stage disease, often because symptoms are vague or are similar to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. This World Ovarian Cancer Day we commit to driving ongoing awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms.

This World Ovarian Cancer Day, individuals are encouraged to learn the symptoms, share the BEAT message, and support efforts to improve awareness and education around ovarian cancer worldwide.

For more information, please visit www.thisisGO.ie  

#NoWomanLeftBehind #WorldOvarianCancerDay #BEAT #WOCD26

PHOTOS – MARC O SULLIVAN