By Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson, OB-GYN and State Senator for California’s 39th District, representing parts of central San Diego, La Mesa, El Cajon, and Lemon Grove.
Every September, we wear teal to recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month—but for far too many women, the disease remains hidden in plain sight. That’s why I authored Senate Resolution 56, officially designating September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. As an OB-GYN, I see firsthand the urgent need for public health initiatives like this. SR 56 is not just symbolic—it is a potential lifesaver.
Yet less than 20% of ovarian cancers are caught in the early stages.
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 physician, I applaud California’s leadership in adopting Senate Resolution 56. 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 healthcare 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 the fifth-leading cause 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 healthcare 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 a doctor, 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.
