Every September, we wear teal to recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, but for far too long many women, the disease remains hidden in plain sight.
This year, California has taken a crucial step with Senate Resolution 124, officially designating September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
As a member of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus I see firsthand the urgent need for public health initiatives like this. SR 124 is not just symbolic — it is a potential lifesaver.
Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because its symptoms are vague and easily overlooked: bloating, abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, or frequent urination. These are everyday complaints for many women.
It’s a threat for all women – our mothers, daughters, sisters, friends.
According to the American Cancer Society, over 20,000 cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2026 and over 12,000 will die from ovarian cancer.
That’s why awareness matters. It’s not just about ribbons or resolutions — it’s about giving women a fighting chance through education, early detection, and empowerment.
As a proud co-author of Senate Resolution 124, I applaud California’s leadership in adopting this measure. This kind of legislative recognition creates a platform for educational campaigns, partnerships with health organizations, and media attention that can reach women where they are — at home, at work, online.
It also encourages health care providers to have more proactive conversations with patients about family history, genetic risks and the importance of annual checkups.
But California should not be alone in this. I urge other states to follow suit and recognize September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in the future.
Here’s why:
1. Awareness Saves Lives
Ovarian cancer is rare, but it is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States. Public awareness campaigns have made major strides with breast cancer, why not ovarian cancer? Greater awareness can lead to earlier diagnoses, better outcomes, and more lives saved.
2. Health Disparities Persist
Women of color are often diagnosed later and have poorer outcomes, not due to biology, but due to systemic inequities in access, awareness and trust in the health care system. State-level recognition gives local advocates the support and visibility needed to reach underserved populations.
3. It Spurs Policy and Research
When lawmakers prioritize awareness, it opens the door to additional action — funding for research, screening programs, and better insurance coverage for genetic testing and preventive care. One resolution can catalyze real policy progress.
4. It Supports Survivors and Families
Ovarian cancer doesn’t just affect individuals, it impacts entire families. Recognizing their struggle validates their experience and creates a sense of community. Survivors are some of the most powerful advocates we have; their voices deserve to be heard.
As your state senator, I can tell you that science alone is not enough. We need education. We need legislation. We need community support.
When patients come in armed with knowledge and questions, they are already a step ahead. When states like California say, “We see you, we hear you, and we are acting,” it makes a difference.
So to every legislator, health department, and medical professional in the country: Join California. Declare September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in your state. Let’s not wait until it’s too late for the women we serve.
Suzette Martinez Valladares represents the Santa Clarita Valley in the state Senate.
