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Ovarian cancer, with its lack of obvious symptoms, is known to sneak up on women, leading many to be diagnosed only during the advanced stages of the disease.
It's a cancer that Merran Williams knows all too well. As a gynaecological nurse, she was shocked to discover that she had ovarian cancer. Five years on, only two things continue to surprise her: how unforgiving ovarian cancer can be, and how big a difference research has made, even in the few years since her diagnosis.
“I’m so passionate about research, because it really is the key. When I had my surgery, it was surgery first, then chemo. Today, they use chemo first to shrink the tumour, and then surgery followed by more chemo. It’s research that led to this method, and the surgery is far less invasive today as a result.”
With only 43% of women with ovarian cancer making it through their first five years, it is crucial that we learn from those who are surviving.
We need your help to find the answers urgently sought by those facing cancer. Click here to donate today.
Research unlocking the secrets of survivors:
QIMR’s Associate Professor Penny Webb is currently recruiting 1,200 Australian women recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer to participate in the Ovarian Cancer Prognosis and Lifestyle (OPAL) study.
She is interested in obtaining evidence that shows how different lifestyle factors—such as diet, exercise, the use of common medications, and even vitamins—might impact the outcomes of those with ovarian cancer.
“We’re trying to answer the question that almost every woman with ovarian cancer asks—what can I do to help beat this disease?"
This important research is part of our ongoing commitment to significantly improve the outcomes for cancer patients in Queensland, and Australia-wide. A commitment you can help us to meet.
Like all research, the ability to fund programs like OPAL and to continue to conduct successful clinical studies is dependent on the generosity of the community—people like you.
Click here to make a donation today and you will be helping us to find vital answers through scientific evidence.
Over the last few decades, research discoveries have helped to improve diagnosis times and treatment strategies. However, more work needs to be done to assist patients with living longer, healthier lives after being diagnosed.
Please join us in our ongoing quest to help improve the outcomes, health and wellbeing of all who face cancer, both today and tomorrow.
Click here to make a gift to today, and help us to find the answers urgently sought by women facing ovarian cancer and reduce the impact of cancer and other diseases in Queensland and Australia-wide.