Atlanta, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is preparing to host the Teal Trot in Chastain Park to promote awareness of ovarian cancer. This 5K run/walk aims to educate the public about the disease’s risks and symptoms, emphasizing early detection’s critical role. The event is spearheaded by the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance, with a focus on innovative diagnostic research. Survivors and healthcare professionals advocate for increased awareness and preventive measures to combat this often-overlooked cancer, highlighting the benefits of community support and advocacy.
Atlanta is set to host the Teal Trot event in Chastain Park on September 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. to raise awareness for ovarian cancer. This 5K run/walk event aims to shed light on the risks and symptoms of a cancer that often goes undetected until it is too late.
Every year, more than 20,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, yet many remain unaware of its associated risks and symptoms. The state of awareness is critical, especially considering that the lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer for women stands at approximately 1 in 78. Symptoms can often be vague, resembling non-cancerous conditions and leading to delayed diagnoses.
The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance, organizing this event, emphasizes the importance of raising public knowledge about both the disease and the need for early detection. Atlanta Fire Chief Rod Smith, who serves on the Board of Directors for the organization, is among many advocating for increased awareness.
Progress in Early Detection
Innovative advances in the early detection of ovarian cancer are being made at the Ovarian Cancer Institute, founded by Dr. Benedict Benigno. Currently, the institute is conducting trials for an early diagnostic test with 800 women, with results expected in approximately 6-8 weeks. Should the test prove successful, it has the potential to significantly enhance the survival rate for women diagnosed at earlier stages.
The survival statistics reflect this urgency: stage 1 ovarian cancer has a 92% chance of survival, while advanced cases see these numbers plummet to less than 40% after five years. Preliminary results from the ongoing trials showcase a nearly 95% success rate in detection, although the test must achieve close to 100% accuracy for FDA approval.
Innovative Research Techniques
The Ovarian Cancer Institute is also exploring new methodologies in cancer detection, such as using machine learning and experimenting with nanoparticles that could target cancer cells without impacting healthy cells. At 83 years old, Dr. Benigno remains an active leader in this research field, focusing exclusively on ovarian cancer since the early 1990s.
The Need for Awareness
Survivors like Sherene Harati, who was diagnosed at the age of 25, highlight the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking proper medical guidance. Additionally, disparities exist in care that affect particular demographics. Black women often experience later diagnoses and higher mortality rates from ovarian cancer.
Healthcare professionals, such as Dr. Leda Gattoc from the Piedmont Cancer Institute, note that symptoms can include gastrointestinal discomfort and changes to menstrual cycles, which add to the challenge of early diagnosis. Survivors like Kim Emory stress that awareness and advocacy are critical in ensuring earlier diagnostic measures are taken.
Preventive measures are vital. Women are encouraged to maintain healthy lifestyles, consider the use of birth control, and undergo necessary gynecological surgeries that may reduce their risk. It is crucial for women to advocate for their health and seek second opinions if they feel uncertain about their medical care.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming Teal Trot is not only a gathering for 5K enthusiasts but serves as a vital platform to promote awareness of ovarian cancer, revealing the pressing need for education on its risks and symptoms, as well as the importance of early diagnosis.
FAQs
- What is the Teal Trot event?
- The Teal Trot event is a 5K run/walk taking place in Chastain Park, Atlanta, on September 20, 2025, to raise awareness for ovarian cancer.
- How many women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer annually in the U.S.?
- More than 20,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year.
- What is the purpose of the Teal Trot?
- The event aims to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and educate the public about its risks and symptoms.
- What are the survival rates for ovarian cancer?
- Stage 1 ovarian cancer has a 92% chance of survival, whereas advanced cases drop below 40% after five years.
- What new methods are being tested for early detection of ovarian cancer?
- The Ovarian Cancer Institute is conducting trials on an early diagnostic test utilizing machine learning and nanoparticles.
Key Features of the Teal Trot and Ovarian Cancer Awareness
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Teal Trot |
| Date | September 20, 2025 |
| Location | Chastain Park, Atlanta |
| Annual Diagnoses | More than 20,000 women in the U.S. |
| Stage 1 Survival Rate | 92% |
| Advanced Cases Survival Rate | Less than 40% |
| Ovarian Cancer Lifetime Risk | 1 in 78 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Peachtree TV: Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance to Host Teal Trot 5K
- Saporta Report: Atlanta’s Ovarian Cancer Institute Breaking New Ground on Early Detection
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer at 25
- Atlanta Jewish Times: Researchers Develop New Test for Ovarian Cancer
- 11 Alive: Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month with Kim Emory
- Wikipedia: Ovarian Cancer
- Google Search: Ovarian Cancer Awareness
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ovarian Cancer
- Google Scholar: Ovarian Cancer Early Detection
- Google News: Ovarian Cancer
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
