Each year in September, World Gynaecological Oncology Day (World GO Day) takes place. Across the world, patients, advocates, and medical professionals unite to raise awareness of all five types of gynaecological cancers (vulval, vaginal, cervical, uterine, and ovarian), promote early detection, and support affected women globally through open conversations.
In 2025, Harris PR were engaged to assist in raising awareness of World GO Day, combining traditional media relations and advocacy to encourage women across Ireland to understand their health and feel confident seeking help.
The Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology (INGO) is a voluntary coordination body of over 30 of Ireland’s leading gynaecological cancer campaigners, researchers, and patient advocates. The group is committed to educating the public on prevention, symptoms, early diagnosis, and treatment.
Misconceptions and stigma around gynaecological cancers continue to be a major barrier to early diagnosis. Research commissioned by INGO, and funded by Breakthrough Cancer Research, shows that 1 in 3 women (31%) mistakenly believe cervical screening checks for all five gynaecological cancers. The same research found that 1 in 7 women delay or avoid GP visits due to embarrassment discussing symptoms, and 1 in 5 would avoid going to the doctor because they do not want to speak to the GP receptionist about their symptoms. With almost 2,000 women across the island of Ireland diagnosed with gynaecological cancers annually, these barriers can have life-threatening consequences.
For more information on Gynaecological cancers and World GO Day activities in Ireland, visit www.thisisgo.ie.
