Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) is the leading nonprofit organization in the world combating ovarian and all gynecologic cancers.
OCRA has invested over $122 million in research initiatives, helped secure $3.8 billion in federal funding for research and education programs, and annually supports and engages more than 95,000 individuals through comprehensive support programs and resources.
Saving more lives through genetic testing and preventive action
OCRA’s approach to prevention is groundbreaking, combining genetic testing with recommendations on preventive surgical options to help women reduce their cancer risk. OCRA’s free genetic testing, for those who qualify, identifies risk-elevating genetic mutations and empowers those at elevated risk to pursue preventive measures.
OCRA also strongly advocates for all women, even those at average risk, to talk with their doctors about removing their fallopian tubes at the time of other planned pelvic surgeries. Studies show that 70% of the most common and lethal ovarian cancer starts in the fallopian tubes, and this simple procedure, called opportunistic salpingectomy, can greatly reduce the risk of cancer.
Health equity in gynecologic cancer care
OCRA is committed to ensuring that all patients, regardless of race, income, or geographic location, have access to high-quality cancer care. Its online Doctor Finder allows users to enter their zip code and immediately find the nearest gynecologic oncologists, specialists, and treatment centers, making it easier for patients to find the right care team for them, while OCRA’s Health Equity Research Grants are addressing barriers to care in underserved communities in order to ensure advances in treatment and prevention reach everyone.
Collaborative research for a cure
With over $122 million invested, and an additional $6 million already committed for 2025, OCRA is the largest private funder of ovarian and related gynecologic cancer research worldwide, supporting scientists working toward better treatments and understanding of these diseases, and driving advancements that can benefit patients now and in the future.
Advocacy for policy change
As the only dedicated voice for the gynecologic cancer community on Capitol Hill, OCRA advocates on the state and federal levels for increased funding for gynecologic cancer research and education programs, drug and diagnostic safety, and access to preventive measures and quality care for all patients.
Empowering patients with support and resources
OCRA’s patient support programs are a model in the field, from its Patient Support Line (led by highly experienced oncology social workers) to its Woman to Woman Peer Mentor Program, and robust Staying Connected Support Series, which recently expanded its programming for Spanish-speaking patients, survivors, and caregivers.
Looking ahead
OCRA’s newly launched ovarian and endometrial cancer patient registry, a first-of-its-kind collaborative initiative, aims to identify trends and better understand how these cancers progress, ultimately leading to improved therapies and outcomes. Its upcoming, groundbreaking Federated Data Network will allow researchers to share and access biodata from around the world, serving as a hub for international collaboration to accelerate our collective progress toward a cure.
To learn more about OCRA’s work or get involved, visit ocrahope.org
