Educational Programs
One of the core missions of the Colorado Gynecologic Cancer Alliance is to raise public awareness of gynecologic cancers as well as educating doctors and health care providers. Only one gynecologic cancer (cervical) has a diagnostic test - the Pap Smear. All other gynecologic cancers (ovarian, uterine/endometrial, vulvar, and vaginal) are difficult to diagnose because signs and symptoms are usually vague and subtle and, for ovarian and uterine/endometrial cancers, often confused with other forms of disease such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
We encourage everyone to be aware of the symptoms of gynecologic cancers because early detection is the key to saving lives. Our goal is to empower individuals to take charge of their health and be advocates for their medical care. Our mission is to provide individuals with the knowledge they need in order to make better-informed health decisions - decisions that could save their lives.
The chart above, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shows the most common symptoms
for all gynecologic cancers.
Survivors Teaching Students®
A Program of the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)
Educating Medical Students in Colorado
Developed in 2002 by the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCRA), Survivors Teaching Students® (STS), provides the opportunity for survivors to speak directly to future health professionals. The goal is to increase understanding of ovarian cancer symptoms and risk factors so that they can diagnose the disease when it is in its earlier, most treatable stages.
​
In 2005, CGCA brought the Survivors Teaching Students® program to Colorado. We KNOW this program is making a difference and you can be part of that success.
If you are an ovarian cancer survivor, please help us put a face and voice to the disease by volunteering to participate in STS®. You will receive training and advice about how to write down and present your story and we’ll be right there with you during the presentation as well.
​
For more information, reach out to Contact@GynCancerColorado.org or 303-506-7014
CGCA Awareness Ambassador Program
The overarching mission of the CGCA Awareness Ambassadors program is to educate the wider community about the symptoms and risk factors of gynecologic cancer. In addition, the Ambassador program provides a platform for cancer survivors and those who love them to share stories that can save lives.
Raising Awareness
During gynecologic cancer awareness month (September) CGCA reaches out to Denver and Grand Junction television, radio, and print media with goody bags and press releases that encourage on-air discussions about gynecologic cancers. Our PR team works hard to schedule interviews with survivors and caregivers to raise awareness of all gynecologic cancers with the general public.
​
For many years, Kendra Scott has been an incredible partner in this effort, providing teal jewelry that is gifted to female television news anchors. We are very grateful for their kind contribution!
Health Fairs and Public Speaking Engagements
If you know of local community health fairs, women's and community groups (in your community or at your place of worship), your book club, etc., we'd love to come talk to them about the symptoms and risk factors of gynecologic cancers.
​
Or we would be happy to TRAIN YOU to talk to your group. We will provide all the necessary materials, too!
​
For more information, or to help, contact us at Contact@GynCancerColorado.org or 303-506-7014.
