Friday 8th of May is World Ovarian Cancer Day and less than one in three women feel confident that they would recognise the signs of ovarian cancer – they can be easily mistaken for other issues
5/5/26 ***NO REPRO FEE*** Broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan joins Deirdre Flannelly, patient advocate, Amy Nolan, Director of Clinical Affairs, Irish Cancer Society, Sharon O’Toole, Trinity College Dublin and Bernie Carter, Marie Keating Foundation as the Irish Network for Gynaecological
Oncology (INGO) unveiled the BEAT Bench. Designed by artist Chloe Mowlds to
mark World Ovarian Cancer Day (8th May), the vibrant installation aims to boost symptom
recognition as new research reveals fewer than one in three Irish women feel confident identifying
signs of the disease. The bench will remain at Dundrum until 8th May, encouraging the public to
“take a seat” and learn the life-saving BEAT symptoms. Pic: Marc O’Sullivan(Image: Marc O’Sullivan)
The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can be easily mistaken for digestive issues as only 29 percent of women feel like they would be confident to recognise the signs.
Friday 8th of May is World Ovarian Cancer Day and this year, the Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO) is determined to educate people to avoid the gaps in our knowledge that lead to delayed diagnoses.
INGO is a voluntary coordination body of over 30 of Ireland’s leading gynaecological cancer campaigners, researchers, and patient advocates. This year, they have 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:
- B loating that is persistent and doesn’t come and go
- E ating less and feeling full more quickly
- A bdominal and pelvic pain you feel most days
- T oilet 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.
Annually, approximately 400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and almost 300 women die from this disease in the Republic of Ireland. In Northern Ireland, almost 204 are diagnosed and 120 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.
Ms. Claire Thompson, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist in the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital and Rotunda Hospital said: “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 added: “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.”
“Every woman in Ireland deserves to know the signs of ovarian cancer, yet too often, they are overlooked,” said Bridget Carr, Patient Advocate. “ 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.”
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 earlier this week on the 5th of May, at Dundrum Town by special guest Miriam O’Callaghan.
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