Project COURAGE
Community Ovarian Cancer Understanding Through Risk Assessment and Genetic Education
Project COURAGE is a community-based education and access program with engaging and evidence-based information focused on ovarian cancer awareness, risk factors, and prevention options, including genetic testing.
Why it Matters
Although ovarian cancer is relatively rare—making up about 2.5% of cancers in women and ranking as the 11th most common—it is the fifth leading cause of cancer‑related death among women.
In 2026, the American Cancer Society estimates:
-
Approx. 21,000
new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed
-
12,450
deaths from ovarian cancer
This high mortality rate is largely due to two factors:
- Most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages 3 or 4, when the disease has already progressed.
- There are no recommended screening guidelines for the general population, unlike breast or colorectal cancer, because of the location and nature of the affected tissues.
Project COURAGE aims to help adults better understand their personal cancer risk, especially women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Participants learn about ovarian cancer risk factors and how personal and family health histories can guide decisions about genetic testing and screening.
Attendees receive easy-to-understand educational materials and may complete a brief questionnaire to help decide whether genetic counseling is right for them. Based on each person’s needs, the team provides clear next steps—such as how to gather family health history or request an appointment with a genetic counselor.
Share COURAGE with Your Community
Programming by Project COURAGE is offered at no cost to organizers and attendees thanks to donor support from The Gail Baird Foundation, which helps expand access to prevention services. Project COURAGE is designed primarily for adults (particularly women of childbearing age), but all are welcome. Workshops typically last about an hour, and advance registration is appreciated when offered by the host site.
Presentations include information on:
- Ovarian cancer awareness, risk factors and prevention
- Hereditary cancer risks
- Genetic counseling and testing options
- Q&A with the experts
- Risk-assessment and next-step guidance
To learn more or explore hosting a workshop for your organization, contact Tina Inman, MS, LCGC at COURAGE.COE@Moffitt.org or make a request online.