Helen Polley (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Ovarian cancer, often called the silent killer, has subtle symptoms that are easily mistaken for less serious conditions, making early detection challenging. By the time most women are diagnosed the cancer is already in the later stages and has spread. February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and I want to highlight the impact of ovarian cancer and the significant steps the Albanese Labor government has taken to address this issue.

Awareness is a powerful tool in the fight against ovarian cancer. Public awareness campaigns, educational programs and community outreach efforts play a crucial role in spreading information about ovarian cancer and its symptoms. Advocacy groups tirelessly lobby for increased funding and support for ovarian cancer research. Back in my home state of Tasmania, the fantastic JackJumpers are rallying the community for the fourth time in their annual teal round, proudly supporting their local charity partner SHE—Support, Hope, Education. This event aims to raise vital funds and awareness for gynaecological cancers. Since the inception of the teal game initiative in 2022, the JackJumpers have raised over $150,000 for SHE through the incredible support of their fans and community. Funds from this year's teal round will contribute directly to SHE's mission to build a world-class cancer wellness centre in Hobart, Tasmania.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers amongst Australian women. In 2023 it was estimated that 1,786 women would be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and more than a thousand of those women would lose their lives to this disease. The survival rate for ovarian cancer remains alarmingly low, with only 49 per cent of the women diagnosed surviving beyond five years.

The greatest challenge in combating ovarian cancer is its late detection. Symptoms such as bloating, pelvic pain and changes in menstrual patterns are often mistaken for less serious conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis. Approximately 70 per cent of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at stages 3 and 4, when the cancer has already spread. Early-stage diagnosis, on the other hand, dramatically increases the survival rate to 90 per cent.

Recent studies have revealed a concerning link between endometriosis and ovarian cancer. Women with endometriosis are four times more likely to develop ovarian cancer, and those with deep infiltrating endometriosis are almost 10 times more likely to develop the disease. The connection underscores the importance of targeted screening and prevention strategies for all women.

The Albanese Labor government have taken significant steps to address ovarian cancer. Our government announced a $24 million investment in health and medical research focusing on women's health. This funding includes projects aimed at improving early detection, treatment and survival rates for ovarian cancer. One of the key projects funded by this investment is the development of a new radio-imaging agent designed to enhance the accuracy of ovarian cancer diagnosis. Additionally, research on drug repurposing has identified existing medications that may be effective in treating ovarian cancer.

As the co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Pain Management, I have the privilege of supporting numerous organisations and foundations dedicated to improving women's health in combating ovarian cancer. The efforts of these organisations have led to significant advancement, including the development of new tests for detecting high-grade ovarian cancer and the discovery of several other new cancer markers.

What we really need to do is continue to shine a light on this cancer, and the great news out of what Breast Cancer Australia have done in raising awareness is the additional services provided by nursing for all forms of cancer, which will go a long way in supporting those on this journey.