Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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September 01, 2025
WHEREAS, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths of women in the United States and causes more deaths than any other gynecologic cancer; and,
WHEREAS, in the United States, a woman’s lifetime risk of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is about 1 in 91; and,
WHEREAS, the American Cancer Society estimates 20,890 cases of ovarian cancer will be newly diagnosed and 12,730 individuals will die from the disease nationwide in 2025, including 650 new cases and 440 deaths in Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, the five-year survival rate for ovarian cancer is 50 percent and survival rates vary greatly depending on the type of ovarian cancer and stage at diagnosis; and,
WHEREAS, there is not currently an effective diagnostic tool for screening and early detection is difficult; only about 20% of ovarian cancers are found at an early stage. It is important for women to recognize symptoms, talk with their provider about changes in their body, and learn what can be done to reduce risk;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the State of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2025 as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan.