Letter to the Editor: Help change the future for women with gynaecological cancer

Letter to the Editor 

Help change the future for women with gynaecological cancer 

Every day in Australia, 19 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancer and heartbreakingly, six will lose their lives. For those living in regional and rural communities, the challenges are often even greater, with delays in diagnosis, limited access to specialists, and long travel distances adding significant strain to an already devastating experience. 

At ANZGOG, we are committed to changing this future. 

Our Survivors Teaching Students (STS) program is a deeply impactful initiative that brings the voices of women who have experienced gynaecological cancer directly into university classrooms. These courageous volunteers share their personal stories with medical and nursing students to help shape a more compassionate, informed and responsive generation of healthcare professionals. 

Since launching in Australia, our STS volunteers have reached more than 20,000 students. Their stories help future clinicians better understand the signs and symptoms of these diseases, improve the likelihood of early diagnosis, and embed empathy and respect into the care of every woman affected. 

We are now inviting more women to take part in this powerful program. 

If you or someone you know has been affected with ovarian, uterine (endometrial), cervical, vulvar or vaginal cancer, your experience can help others. No public speaking experience is needed — only a willingness to share your journey in a safe and supported environment. 

To find out more and join this special and inspiring community, please visit anzgog.org.au/sts. 

Alison Evans 
Chief Executive Officer

ANZGOG