Media  

For all media enquiries please contact:

Andrea Brady, Catalyst Communication Consulting, 021 977 688, andrea@catalystcommunication.co.nz

Sarah Hutchings, General Manager, sarah@nzgcf.org.nz

Press Release 1 March 2010

TOGETHER WE CAN BEAT THE SILENT KILLER - OVARIAN CANCER

Today Ovacome launches a campaign that asks every woman in the UK to BEAT Ovarian Cancer by listening to her body and noting the alarm signals of the disease

For the first time, under the BEAT Ovarian Cancer campaign, launched today, charities across the English-speaking world are coming together to shout down the myth that this is a “silent killer”.

The partner charities involved in the BEAT International Coalition group are: Ovarian Cancer Australia; Silver Ribbon Foundation, New Zealand; Ovarian Cancer Canada and Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (US).

We, and our partner charities internationally, think there is not enough being done to tell women about the early signs of the fifth most common female cancer – ovarian cancer.

Ovacome, and our partner charities internationally, will use the BEAT acronym to help spread the word about the main symptoms of ovarian cancer.

In survey results released today, (March 1, 2010) 87%* of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer didn’t know the symptoms of the disease and a third hadn’t even heard of it.

Launching the BEAT Ovarian Cancer campaign - that aims to make every woman in the UK aware of the symptoms - Ovacome Chief Executive, Louise Bayne, said: “In the last 20 years, there has been a transformation in the way ovarian cancer is treated - but public awareness of the symptoms has not kept up with this medical progress.

“Women are becoming more aware of other common female cancers and how to spot them – but ovarian cancer has been left behind.

“Following the UK’s first ever Consensus Meeting on Ovarian Cancer, we now have a shared understanding between charities and the medical profession as to what the signs of the disease are. We hope that by promoting these warning signs in a memorable and easy-to-understand way, women will be more easily able to discuss ovarian cancer with their doctors, and those with the disease can feel reassured that they were diagnosed as quickly as possible.”

In fact, the most important determinant of survival for ovarian cancer is the stage of disease at diagnosis. For women diagnosed with early stage disease the five-year survival rate is more than 70%, but only a fifth of cases are diagnosed this early. For women diagnosed with cancer that has spread beyond the ovaries, the five-year survival rate is around 15%, and around a third of women are diagnosed with this stage of disease.

Louise Bayne added: “Our BEAT Ovarian Cancer campaign aims to tell every woman in the UK that this is not a silent killer, and they can BEAT Ovarian Cancer by listening to their bodies, spotting subtle but distinct changes and getting help at an early stage.

“In our view, the medical profession also has some work to do to raise awareness of the symptoms with their patients and to listen seriously to women who present with problems that could be linked to ovarian cancer.

“A typical GP will only see one case in every five years and most of these will be from women at the time of their menopause or later – it’s easy to understand why they want to dismiss other, less serious causes of symptoms such as IBS, bloating, weight gain before thinking the worst – particularly in a younger woman.

“However, this needs to change. Ovarian cancer needs to be investigated as an option early on. If it’s caught at the earliest stage, patients have a 90% survival rate beyond five years.”

• Survey conducted on 100 women with ovarian cancer by Ovacome.

Editor’s Notes

Ovacome, the ovarian cancer support and information network, which has over 5,500 members, is working to support both women and health professionals to improve the diagnosis of the disease. The charity is leading the way in building a greater understanding of the disease’s symptoms with the launch of its BEAT campaign in March 2010 to mark next year’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. As part of this GP involved initiative, Ovacome aims to introduce an innovative web based risk and symptoms toolkit for women who suspect that they may have the disease.

Ovacome, which has its own nurse-led support service, has an unrivalled understanding of ovarian cancer and the clinical trial process, with access to the UK's top clinicians.

It prides itself on being the authority on the disease and the one stop shop for journalists wanting the latest information and statistics on ovarian cancer, as well media friendly case studies and photos.

For more information, please contact Ovacome PR Amanda Hayhurst or Holly Brace on 020-8 973 2630, ahayhurst@schwartz-pr.co.uk hbrace@schwartz-pr.co.uk or Juliet Morrison on 01273 206912 or 0778 4652520; julietmorrison@btconnect.com or Louise Bayne, Chief Executive, on l.bayne@ovacome.org.uk

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Press Release, September 2009

CANCER SOCIETY COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS SURVEY PRODUCES WORRYING RESULTS

Of the 1000 people surveyed by the Cancer Society of New Zealand on behalf of the Silver Ribbon Foundation for Gynaecological Cancers, over one third could not identify a single sign or symptom This is a worrying result”, says Rachel Brown, co-founder of the Silver Ribbon Foundation.

“Early diagnosis of the gynaecological cancers saves lives, however if you don’t know what the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers are, it reduces your chance of catching it before it is too late.”

The survey highlighted several key groups that appeared to lack awareness. Maori women in particular were identified as having the lowest awareness levels about gynaecological cancers, their signs and symptoms and risk factors.

Women aged 20 to 29 also demonstrated low awareness levels along with those not educated beyond high school level.

“In New Zealand, one woman dies from a gynaecological cancer every day”, says Rachel.

“ We are determined to reduce this number and are asking all New Zealand women to take time this month to familiarise themselves with the different signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancer.

“It only takes a few minutes, but it could save your life”, she adds.

There are four main types of gynaecological cancer –ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval/vaginal. Only one of these, cervical cancer, is able to be screened for. Each have differing symptoms but anything out of the ordinary and persistent should always be discussed with your doctor. All women should look out for the following:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially after menopause.

• General abdominal pain.

• Pain during sexual intercourse.

• Itchy skin around the opening to the vagina.

• Difficulty passing urine.

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include increased abdominal size or persistent bloating, pelvic and/or abdominal pain, difficulty when eating and feeling full quickly. Other symptoms such as urinary problems, changes in bowel habits, extreme fatigue or back pain may also be experienced.

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Press Release, September 2009

Elite New Zealand rower shares her battle with cervical cancer

On the 11th September 2009, elite sportswoman and gynaecological cancer survivor, Fiona Paterson, will host a Share and Care event at Lake Karapiro for the Silver Ribbon Foundation.

Fiona, 26, the face of the Silver Ribbon Foundation Share and Care campaign, will host an afternoon tea at Lake Karapiro, bringing together a group of influential and high profile New Zealand women, including double Olympic gold medalist, Georgina Evers-Swindell and MP for Taupo, Louise Upston.

Fiona says that by talking about her experience with cervical cancer she aims to break some barriers and encourage women to act on their concerns when they feel that something just isn’t right.

“By hosting an event and bringing the women that I care about together in one place, I can share my experience and impress upon them the importance of early detection,” said Fiona.

“I have always been a very active and energetic person, throwing myself completely into every challenge I set myself,” said Fiona. “Yet whilst I was focused on my athletic performance and achievement, the subtle changes within my body that were the tell tale signs that something was wrong, were ignored for far too long.”

Fiona explains that irregular bleeding, extreme fatigue, weight loss and a significant decrease in her athletic performance finally drove her to get a thorough check-up. “There was six weeks between diagnosis and having the tumour removed and a radical hysterectomy”, said Fiona.

“It has been an enormous challenge, but one I was determined to face with the same mind-set as I did for my training, I wouldn’t let this rule my mind or my life,” Fiona added.

“Hindsight is a wonderful thing,” Fiona says, “I am privileged to be able to look back at my journey, to thank all the wonderful people who supported me, and to use this opportunity to encourage all women to be proactive about their own gynaecological health”.

As part of a national campaign, Fiona’s Share and Care event is just one of more than 50 events that will bring over 500 people together to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the four main forms of gynaecological cancer and to encourage women to talk to their doctor.

In New Zealand, 860 women will be diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer every year, and one woman dies every day.

The four main forms of gynaecological cancer include ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval cancer. The signs and symptoms of each cancer are different, but it is the subtle and persistent changes that are the early warning signs.

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The following information is available upon request:

• Gynaecological Cancer Fact Sheet

• The Silver Ribbon Foundation Fact Sheet

• Fiona Paterson case study

For further information or to coordinate interviews, please contact:

Andrea Brady, Catalyst Communication Consulting – 021 977 688, andrea@catalystcommunication.co.nz

Media Release, August 2009

CASE STUDY – Fiona Paterson – cervical cancer survivor

Born in Dunedin in 1983, the second youngest of seven and raised on a sheep station in Central Otago, Fiona has always played a “ridiculous range of sports”. Her main passions were hockey and rowing and five years at Columba College in Dunedin allowed her the opportunity to indulge her sporting and artistic passions whilst balancing her academic pursuits. “If I had to describe myself,” Fiona says, “I would say I am a sporty, arty, random, empathetic person who is very grateful to be around to be these things.”

Recognizing an innate and inwardly competitive streak, Fiona found her place in the rowing team and set about achieving performance goals. She was selected into the New Zealand Junior Women’s Rowing Eight in 2000 and 2001. Following strong performances, Fiona was selected into the New Zealand Under 23 team from 2003 to 2005. In 2004 as a member of the Quad, her team won a Gold Medal at under 23 World Champs in Poland.

In February 2006, following a prolonged period of reduced athletic performance and severe fatigue, Fiona underwent a series of tests and was diagnosed with clear cell cervical cancer. Tell tale signs of the illness went undetected for longer than they should have. Fiona had previously accepted the notion that being an athlete and subjecting your body to physical stress, messed with your cycle. She saw being tired as “part of the package” so pressed on with training and a busy life, putting her concerns to the back of her mind.

There was six weeks between Fiona’s diagnosis of cervical cancer and her surgery to have the tumour removed and a radical hysterectomy. Following this was another six weeks recovery before beginning five weeks of daily radiation and five rounds of chemotherapy to completely eradicate any cancer cells. This treatment was essential but caused Fiona’s ovaries to fail and the onset of premature menopause. Fiona started on Hormone Replacement Therapy. At just 23, the reality of never having children was a difficult challenge to face, but she did so with the same steely resolve and determination that had helped her succeed in her sporting pursuits. “Letting cancer beat me was never an option and letting it decrease my quality of life wasn’t either, I didn’t let cancer rule my mind”.

Physical fitness and sporting achievement had always driven Fiona, so it was no surprise to anyone that she trained lightly during treatment. As soon as her treatment finished she was determined to build her strength, slowly getting fit again and setting about rebuilding her life. To her credit, Fiona was selected into the New Zealand Rowing Team (Women’s Eight) in 2007 and 2008, narrowly missing out on qualifying for the Eight for Beijing Olympics. Currently working towards making the New Zealand rowing summer squad at the end of the year, Fiona has her sights set on future achievements on the water and is grateful for the ongoing support of Rowing New Zealand.

Looking back with the benefit of hindsight, Fiona is candid about the procrastination that could have cost her life, “I should have been a lot more proactive, gone for regular smear tests and listened to my body.” The unwavering love and support of family and friends was one of the keys to Fiona’s recovery. Having their support at the time of surgery and post operative care, and throughout the entire treatment period kept her mood buoyed and allowed her to focus on the matter of getting better.

Fiona can’t speak highly enough of her wonderful team of medical professionals, including her surgeon Dr Ai Ling Tan, and Ruth Angel and the team at Waikato hospital. It was Dr Ai Ling Tan that recognized Fiona’s spirit, passion for life and her genuine concern for those around her, and approached Fiona to be a part of the Silver Ribbon team. Fiona talks about the opportunity to be part of the Silver Ribbon Foundation as the highlight of her year and sharing her journey with cervical cancer as “making a difference to the lives of other women”. “Talking about it is the only way to raise awareness,” Fiona said, “Women need to know the signs and symptoms of all four gynaecological cancers and if something is abnormal, it’s not normal, and they need see a doctor, don’t procrastinate”.

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For further information about the Silver Ribbon Foundation or to coordinate an interview with Fiona, please contact: Andrea Brady, Catalyst Communication Consulting – 021 977 688, andrea@catalystcommunication.co.nz 

Press Release, September 2009

Get your Girlie bits in order! Share and Care with Silver Ribbon

The Silver Ribbon Foundation is giving these women a voice and publicly talking about gynaecological health; raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of the four main forms of gynaecological cancer – ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval.

“As women, we know our own bodies better than anyone and we can’t afford to ignore the subtle changes or persistent symptoms”, said Rachel Brown co-founder of the Silver Ribbon Foundation. “Women need to take note of any changes and be confident in discussing them with their doctor. Early detection is the best form of prevention,” added Rachel.

During the month of September, the Silver Ribbon Foundation will be supporting and educating New Zealand women through a network of Share and Care events. These events will be hosted by women all over the country and serve to raise awareness of gynaecological cancers and to raise funds for further education initiatives.

Elite New Zealand Rower Fiona Paterson (a gynaecological cancer survivor herself) will host a celebrity Share and Care event at Lake Karapiro on the 11th September 2009. Other events will be held across New Zealand throughout the month. “By hosting an event and bringing the women that I care about together in one place, I can share my experience and impress upon them the importance of early detection,” said Fiona Paterson.

“It’s time we talked about our girlie bits and as a cancer survivor, I’m happy to be the first to do so!” For women interested in hosting their own Share and Care get-together, they should register their event with the Silver Ribbon Foundation (www.silverribbon.co.nz) to receive a Host Pack full of vital information and helpful materials.

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Press Release, May 2009

Silver Ribbon brooch designed by jeweller to the Queen

An elegant silver ribbon brooch and pendant being sold by the Silver Ribbon Foundation in time for Mother’s Day, has been designed by New Zealand jeweller to the Queen, Peter Minturn, to raise awareness of gynaecological cancers.

The idea for the brooch and pendant, which acts as a symbol of support for women who have experienced gynaecological cancer, was suggested to Peter by friend and fellow jeweller Sarah Hutchings.

Sadly, Sarah knows only too well the impact that gynaecological cancer can have on a family. Her mother Bev passed away from uterine cancer four years ago.

“When we found out that my mum had uterine cancer it had already been there for some time, which meant that by the time mum was diagnosed and had her hysterectomy the prognosis was very poor”, said Sarah.

Unfortunately, Sarah’s family has been touched by gynaecological more than once. In 2002 Sarah’s sister-in-law Jan, found out that she had cervical cancer.

“We found out that Jan had a cancerous lesion on her cervix. Thankfully it was caught in time and could be removed. The best option for Jan was to have a hysterectomy, which she did and she has now made a full recovery.

“Luckily when she had the hysterectomy she had finished having her family and has two fantastic boys, now 13 and 17 years old”, adds Sarah.

With Mother’s Day coming up Sarah felt it was the perfect time to raise awareness of an issue that affects so many New Zealand women.

“I really hope that the sale of the brooch or pendant will prompt more women to familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers. Early detection can save lives.”

On sale now, the silver ribbon brooch and pendant costs $60 and can be bought by visiting Sarah at Orsini Jewellery in Parnell, Auckland or by going to www.silverribbon.co.nz. Profits will enable the Silver Ribbon Foundation to provide information and support to women and families faced with a diagnosis of gynaecological cancer.

Rachel Coates, co-founder and trustee of the Silver Ribbon Foundation said, “Every day one woman in New Zealand dies from a gynaecological cancer, which includes ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval cancer.

“Unfortunately, a major reason for this is that because the symptoms are not well known, or commonly mistaken by women as being something else, they often go unreported.

“Every time a silver ribbon pendant or brooch is sold, the profit that the Silver Ribbon Foundation receives will help to ensure that women have easy access to information about the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers, and that those faced with a diagnosis will have the information and networks to support them through their journey.”

For more information about the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers visit www.silverribbon.co.nz

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Press Release, September 12, 2008

A gut feeling about cancer proves to be right on the spot

New Zealander Rosana Hallissey was given news five years ago that no woman wants, or expects to hear; she had an aggressive form of gynaecological cancer.

In the midst of the 45 year old planning her wedding and moving into a new home, Rosana had complaints of a tender tummy and spotting between periods, two symptoms she knew were at the very least, out of the ordinary.

Upon consulting her GP and undergoing a biopsy, she found that her instincts had been right on the mark as her uterus revealed an aggressive form of uterine cancer in its early stages.

Intensive surgery followed, which included the removal of her ovaries, uterus, cervix, omentum and lymph nodes to prevent the cancer from spreading. Luckily, the surgery showed the cancer had not spread beyond her uterus, and she needed no further treatment.

Rosana is one of the lucky ones; there are approximately 78 deaths per year from uterine cancer. Women with other forms of gynaecological cancer may not be so lucky either - 80% of ovarian cancer sufferers do not survive five years because of late diagnosis as a result of vague symptoms and no proven early detection test.

September is internationally recognised as Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month and is a major event on the calendar of the newly founded New Zealand charity, the Silver Ribbon Foundation.

Gynaecological cancer is a very real issue for many kiwi women and their families with 864 new cases diagnosed each year. However, there is a worrying lack of understanding among the public about the seriousness of this issue, said Rachel Coates, co-founder of the foundation.

"We lose one New Zealand woman about every 24 hours to gynaecological cancer, which includes ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval cancer.

"Unfortunately, a major reason for this is that many symptoms go unreported, and the existing pap smear test screening is designed to detect a risk of cervical cancer only – a fact that is unknown to most New Zealand women" she said.

Silver Ribbon hopes to heighten awareness of these conditions and in doing so, help New Zealand women to know the signs that may lead to an early diagnosis.

About Silver Ribbon:

The Silver Ribbon Foundation is a registered New Zealand charity that was established as a family initiative in 2006 to provide a gateway to knowledge, support and vital research to those affected by the disease.

It was co-founded by sisters Rachel Coates and Jackie Whiting, after the passing of their mother Leonie of ovarian cancer in 2006.

About Gynaecological Cancer:

There are four main types of gynaecological cancer, all with differing symptoms:

• Ovarian cancer - 312 new cases diagnosed and 173 deaths each year

• Cervical cancer - 180 new cases diagnosed and 65 deaths each year

• Uterine (endometrial) cancer - 314 new cases diagnosed and 78 deaths each year

• Vulval cancer - 42 new cases diagnosed and 12 deaths each year

Of particular concern to Silver Ribbon is ovarian cancer. Because it is very hard to detect (the symptoms are vague, and there is no screening test for ovarian cancer) and often diagnosed late, the chances of survival are heavily reduced. As a result, 80% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die within 5 years.

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Press Release, 1 September 2008

Comedians and Celebrities support women’s hidden cancer this September

September is internationally recognised as Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month and is a major event on the calendar of the newly founded New Zealand charity, the Silver Ribbon Foundation.

Gynaecological cancer is a very real issue for many kiwi women and their families, with 864 new cases diagnosed each year. However, there is a worrying lack of understanding among the public about the seriousness of this issue, says Rachel Coates, co- founder of the foundation.

“We lose one New Zealand woman about every 24 hours to gynaecological cancer, which includes ovarian, uterine, cervical and vulval cancer. Unfortunately, a major reason for this is that many symptoms go unreported, and the existing pap smear test screening is designed to detect a risk of cervical cancer only – a fact that is unknown to most New Zealand women” she said.

To mark Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, Silver Ribbon will be hosting a ‘comedy & cocktails’ evening at Auckland’s Gus Fisher Gallery on Thursday 25th September. The event will feature local female comedians and celebrities and provide a unique opportunity to celebrate woman and encourage open discussion.

Silver Ribbon hopes to heighten awareness of these conditions and in doing so, help New Zealand women to know the signs that may lead to an early diagnosis.

A number of other exciting events will be happening internationally during the awareness month. A major UK based charity is encouraging women to “make time for tea” by calling on them to host a tea party with friends all in the name of raising awareness of ovarian cancer.

The gynaecological cancer cause has also found support from a number of well-known celebrities. After losing her mother to ovarian cancer last year, Angelina Jolie has recently joined with Fran Drescher (The Nanny), a survivor of uterine cancer, with the aim of achieving early diagnoses for all women’s cancers.

About Silver Ribbon:

The Silver Ribbon Foundation is a registered New Zealand charity that was established as a family initiative in 2006 to provide a gateway to knowledge, support and vital research to those affected by the disease.

It was co-founded by sisters Rachel Coates and Jackie Whiting, after the passing of their mother Leonie of ovarian cancer in 2006.

About Gynaecological Cancer:

There are four main types of gynaecological cancer, all with differing symptoms:

o Ovarian cancer - 312 new cases diagnosed and 173 deaths each year

o Cervical cancer - 180 new cases diagnosed and 65 deaths each year

o Uterine (endometrial) cancer - 314 new cases diagnosed and 78 deaths each year

o Vulval cancer - 42 new cases diagnosed and 12 deaths each year 

Of particular concern to Silver Ribbon is ovarian cancer. Because it is very hard to detect (the symptoms are vague, and there is no screening test for ovarian cancer) and often diagnosed late, the chances of survival are heavily reduced. As a result, 80% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die within 5 years.

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September is the month when women all across New Zealand will be talking about things previously set aside for the relative safety and security of the doctor’s surgery. The harsh reality though, is that most women are not aware of the various forms of gynaecological cancer, let alone their own risk, or many of the early warning signs and symptoms. In New Zealand, 860 women will be diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer every year, and one woman dies every day.

For more information:

If you would like any further information about gynaecological cancer, please feel free to contact one of the gynaecological oncologists listed below.

Auckland: Dr. Al Ling Tan, Greenlane Hospital

Wellington: Dr. Dynes McConnell, Boulcott Hospital

Christchurch: Dr. Peter Sykes, Christchurch Public Hospital

Rachel Brown, co-founder of the Silver Ribbon Foundation is also available for interviews.

Email: silverribbonpr@gmail.com

Media Contact: Georgia Wilkinson and Jamie-Lee Gombard

Website: www.silverribbon.co.nz

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Press Release, 9 July 2008

Cervical Cancer Vaccine, by Dr Ai Ling Tan

HPV causes genital warts, most precancerous disease and cancers of the lower genital tract (cervix, vulva, vagina and cervix). There are many different types of HPV but more than 70% of cervical cancer is caused by HPV 16 and 18.

The government will roll out the HPV Immunisation programme offering free vaccination to girls aged 12-18 years to prevent infections that could lead to cervical cancer. The programme and the approval of the vaccine represent a significant development in women’s health and the fight against cancer.

The vaccine used, Gardasil protects against HPV types 6,11,16 and 18.  Given in a series of 3 injections over 6 months it protects against 16,18 that is responsible for 70% of cervical cancer. It also protects against 90% of genital warts and other HPV related diseases in the vulva, vagina and anus.

With widespread use, HPV vaccination has the potential to lower the occurrence of cervical cancer in future generations. As HPV vaccine prevents HPV infection its best protection is before sexual activity though it still has a role if the woman has had sexual contact.

Despite the protection that vaccination offers, women should still participate in the National Cervical Screening Programme that has been shown to be effective in decreasing cervical cancer.