Ovarian cancer is a complex and challenging disease, primarily affecting the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. This type of cancer often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, ovarian cancer is more difficult to treat and is frequently fatal. Early-stage ovarian cancer, where the disease remains confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are notoriously vague and can easily be mistaken for more common benign conditions. Common symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and urinary symptoms such as urgency or frequency. Due to the nonspecific nature of its symptoms, ovarian cancer is often referred to as a “silent” killer.
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified. These include genetic factors, age (most common in women over 50), reproductive history (such as not having full-term pregnancies), and lifestyle factors. Notably, women with inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have a significantly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Studies show nearly 20% of ovarian cancer patients have an inherited genetic mutation that was likely the cause of their disease. This is one of the highest percentages of inherited mutations among any cancer. The BRCA 1 and 2 mutations are the most common, but there are other genetic mutations as well.
Genetic testing is extremely important because if you have an inherited mutation that increases your risk for ovarian or another gynecologic cancer, there are several things you can do to lower it.
And for those who have already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) guidelines recommend both germline (inherited) and somatic (acquired) testing because having certain gene mutations may impact the type of treatment you receive. Note: If you’ve had genetic testing prior to 2013, you may need to be tested again.
What is the Program?
This program offers a genetic testing initiative generously supported by GSK, AstraZeneca, Merck, and Genentech. This program provides no-cost genetic testing on a first-come, first-served basis, targeting individuals at increased risk of ovarian cancer. By identifying genetic markers associated with higher cancer risk, this initiative aims to empower participants with crucial information that can lead to proactive management and potentially life-saving preventive measures. This testing is part of a broader effort to enhance understanding and prevention of ovarian cancer, aligning with ongoing research and support to those impacted by the disease.
Complete the questionnaire here to determine your eligibility.
If you didn’t qualify for our program but have a history of ovarian, breast, uterine/endometrial, and/or colorectal cancers in your extended family on either side, have a relative with a genetic mutation, or are of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, talk to your doctor about genetic testing. Even if you’re just concerned about possible mutations, have a conversation with your doctor.
OCRA does not determine program eligibility based on a person’s use of any, or any particular, healthcare treatment, product, service or provider. We operate on a first come, first served basis.
Click on the Order Here button below and complete the questionnaire to determine eligibility.
The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) is dedicated to overcoming ovarian cancer by advancing research, advocating for patients, and supporting those affected by the disease. It is recognized as the largest non-governmental funder of ovarian cancer research globally, having invested over $122 million in various scientific breakthroughs. OCRA not only focuses on innovative research but also provides comprehensive support to patients and families, including educational programs and patient advocacy. It plays a critical role in shaping health policies to ensure sustained focus and funding for combating ovarian cancer.
GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com.
AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com and follow the Company on social media @AstraZeneca.
At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Founded more than 40 years ago, Genentech is a leading biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious and life-threatening medical conditions. The company, a member of the Roche Group, has headquarters in South San Francisco, California. For additional information about the company, please visit http://www.gene.com.
