Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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833. To ask the Minister for Health if she will meet with a group (details supplied) to discuss services in Ireland for women with ovarian cancer; if she will comment on the illumination of Leinster House that took place on 8 May 2025 as a message of hope and care that marked World Ovarian Cancer Day; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25581/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in Ireland, with around 400 women diagnosed with this disease each year. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms or symptoms that might be associated with common conditions. This can delay identification and diagnosis. Therefore, raising awareness of ovarian cancer is of huge importance.

I am pleased that many notable landmark buildings across Ireland participated in World Ovarian Cancer Day on 8 May of this year, lighting up teal to support this global initiative. The Light Up in Teal campaign helps provide a timely reminder to women not to ignore the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

The HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme has developed guidelines in relation to ovarian cancer, which are intended to support healthcare professionals in identifying and supporting patients with signs or symptoms suggestive of ovarian cancer. These include a GP Ovarian Cancer Referral Guideline and Referral Form, and a National Clinical Guideline on the Diagnosis and Staging of patients with Ovarian Cancer.

The GP referral guideline aims to facilitate the earlier detection of ovarian cancer in Ireland. It highlights symptoms that may be suggestive of ovarian cancer. It provides GPs with a step-wise algorithm for assessing worrisome symptoms. The national clinical guideline is an evidence-based clinical guideline, which ensures standardised multidisciplinary care for patients, putting evidence into practice to improve patient outcomes.

I understand that my Department has not yet received a meeting request from the organisation in question. Should they wish to meet they are welcome to contact the Department with the appropriate details.