For the Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO), winning the award for Patient Organisation Project of the Year provided them with another opportunity to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

Despite being the leading cause of death from gynaecological malignancies, four in five women in Ireland lack confidence in recognizing its symptoms.

The voluntary group, consisting of thirty of Ireland's top gynaecological cancer advocates, uses occasions like World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8 to spotlight symptoms and urge women to seek medical attention if they have any concerns.

Utilizing a BEAT acronym - Bloating, Eating Difficulties, Abdominal pain, Toilet changes - the group simplifies symptoms for easy recollection.

Last year's campaign by the INGO focused on shedding light on ovarian cancer awareness research and dispelling common misconceptions about the disease. They collaborated with Brazilian street artist Brutto, who crafted a mural on Dublin's Grafton Street to educate passersby on ovarian cancer symptoms.

This year, the group has continued to build on the success of 2024, seizing media opportunities such as a two-page feature in the popular RSVP magazine. Plans are in motion to leverage World Gynaecological Oncology Day on September 20 as another avenue for education and awareness.

"As a voluntary organization, we have been seeking sponsorship for our campaign every year," stated INGO coordinator Dr. Sharon O'Toole. "Winning an award like this garners more attention. It serves as a testament to the success of our campaign. Being able to showcase an Irish Healthcare Award win greatly strengthens our funding efforts for the upcoming year."