Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

This content was archived on June 24, 2013.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

September 2011

Ovarian cancer is often called "the disease that whispers", because there are often no symptoms during its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and easily mistaken for more common illnesses.

Every year, more than 2,600 women in Canada are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and approximately 1,750 women die of this disease. Women over the age of 50, those with a history of cancer or a family history of women's cancers, on long-term hormone replacement therapy, or who have never been pregnant, are more  at risk.

A Pap test does not screen for ovarian cancer, and the HPV vaccine will not protect you from the disease. That's why you should be aware of  signs that suggest ovarian cancer, and discuss your risks with your health-care provider. Living a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and being physically active helps limit your risk of ovarian cancer. 

Over the past 10 years, the Government of Canada has contributed over $32 million to ovarian cancer research, and has provided funding for community-based support to various women's cancers projects throughout Canada. 

As Minister of Health, I encourage you to support Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Please consider participating in one of the 15  Walk of Hope events across the country, sponsoring others, or making a donation.  Your support will help Ovarian Cancer Canada raise funds to increase awareness of ovarian cancer, and help those who have been touched by the disease. 

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada