An event intended to raise awareness for one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in women is planned for next month in Rogers.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and First Security Bank will host a “Teal Talk” luncheon at John Q. Hammons Center Tuesday, Sept. 8, with some of of the leading OB/GYN and Women’s Health professionals in the region providing information on ovarian cancer prevention, detection, treatment and recovery.

According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women age 35-74. One in 72 women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetimes. In Arkansas, approximately 200 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, and 150 deaths occur per year from this disease.

There is currently no early detection test for ovarian cancer. Until there is a test, the key to early diagnosis is awareness. The key to awareness is knowing the subtle symptoms of ovarian cancer and urging women to take early action.

Unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed in their later stages when the prognosis is poor. However, if diagnosed and treated early, when the cancer is confined to the ovary, the five-year survival rate is over 90 percent. That is why it is imperative that the early signs and symptoms of the disease are recognized, not only by women, but also by their families and the medical community.

Participants in the Q&A roundtable discussion include Dr. Todd Hannah, OB/GYN with LifeSpring Women’s Healthcare; Dr. Joseph Ivy, gynecologic oncologist with Highlands Oncology Group; Dr. Toni Terry, OB/GYN with Parkhill Clinic; Miki Biggers, director of Social Work Services for Hope Cancer Resources; and Alesa Garner, education director for Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

The luncheon will take place from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. The event is free, but seating is limited.

To reserve a ticket, call (479) 527-7015, or stop by any First Security Banking Center.