September 2023 is proclaimed as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month by Mayor Jerry Bien-Willner of the Town of Paradise Valley.

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths of women in the United States and causes more deaths than any other gynecologic cancer, the proclamation stated. The American Cancer Society estimates that 13,270 women in the U.S. are projected to lose their lives to ovarian cancer in 2023, and that nearly 20,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Women are at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer if they are middle aged or older, have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, or have had certain cancers in the past. It often goes undetected until advanced stages, so increasing awareness of risk factors is critical to fighting this disease.

“These women are mothers and daughters, sisters, grandmothers, community members and cherished friends, and the absence they leave in our hearts will be deeply felt forever,” states the proclamation.

“I encourage the residents of Paradise Valley to discuss risk factors with their doctors and remain vigilant against symptoms and pay tribute to all those who have been lost to and continue to fight against ovarian cancer,” said Bien-Willner.