Experiences of women with ovarian cancer in low-middle income countries
An international study provides the first comprehensive picture of the lived experiences of women with ovarian cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where 70% of those diagnosed with the disease live.
The cross-sectional, survey-based study recruited 2446 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer from 82 hospitals in 22 LMICs in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, and combined patient reported and clinical data. The research identified factors associated with ovarian cancer knowledge, symptomatology, and financial impact across LMICs.
Among key findings, researchers found low awareness of the disease, with just 1 in 4 women having heard of ovarian cancer before their diagnosis. Most women (90%) experienced at least one symptom associated with ovarian cancer prior to their diagnosis, with minimal variation by cancer stage. Financial impact was widespread, with 3 in 4 women reporting their family finances to be affected either greatly or to some extent by their diagnosis. Women prioritised the development of screening, free access to diagnostics and treatment, reducing time to diagnosis, and raising awareness over issues such as access to new treatments. This first of its kind patient experience research highlights the urgent need to advance global health equity in ovarian cancer care.
Lead author, Garth Funston, said: ‘Publication of the first findings from the Every Woman Study reflects an extraordinary collaboration by clinicians, data experts, and advocacy groups from around the world. Until now, there have been limited data on the experiences of women with ovarian cancer in LMICs. These results could help direct and drive initiatives to improve awareness, diagnosis and care worldwide.’
The full findings from the study, with additional insights, data, and clear actionable steps, have been made available in the Every Woman Study™ LMIC Edition Report, a joint initiative of the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition and the International Gynecologic Cancer Society.
Garth Funston, Eileen Morgan, Tracey Adams et al. Experiences of Women with Ovarian Cancer in 22 Low- and Middle- Income Countries (Every Woman Study™ LMIC): a Cross-sectional Study. The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health , 11 December 2025. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanogw/article/PIIS3050-5038(25)00047-0/fulltext