World Gynecologic Oncology Day receives patronage of European Parliament
European Union leadership backs 8th annual World Gynecologic Oncology Day
The 8th edition of the global campaign will be under the patronage of the European Parliament and supported by MEPs
BRUSSELS, Belgium – The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) and European Network of Gynaecological Cancer Advocacy Groups (ENGAGe) will be running their 8th annual World Gynecologic Oncology Day on 20th September 2026.
For the first time, this year, European Union institutions will join the campaign to raise awareness of cervical, ovarian, endometrial, vulvar, vaginal and other gynaecological cancers. Institutional moral support is being provided by the European Parliament in the form of patronage, and several key Members of the European Parliament will share messages of support via social media.
World Gynecologic Oncology Day is a global awareness project that seeks to raise awareness about gynaecological cancer prevention and lift the burden of stigma surrounding these cancers. Since it launched in 2019, World Gynecologic Oncology Day has grown exponentially, with almost 300 events taking place last year across over 60 countries, in more than 40 languages. This year, the theme is ‘Support Not Stigma’, a call to move beyond awareness of the problem and actively build systems of support for women affected by gynaecological cancers.
The campaign aligns closely with current European gender and healthcare policy including the European Commission's Gender Equality Strategy 2026–2030 and the ongoing implementation of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. The European Parliament’s newly established standing Committee on Public Health (SANT) and the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) are also working in close coordination to dismantle gendered health gaps.
With the increase in visibility on the EU scale, it is expected that the 2026 campaign will surpass prior years and create an even more powerful impact in reducing both stigma around and risk of gynaecological cancers for future generations.
Quotes
Women affected by gynaecological cancers should never feel isolated, ashamed, or unheard.
World GO Day reminds us that beyond every diagnosis there is a person who deserves dignity, empathy, support, and access to the best possible care. Together, we must replace stigma with solidarity, awareness with action, and work together toward the establishment of networks of excellence in gynaecological cancer care.
Jalid Sehouli, ESGO President
On World GO Day, we stand together not only in awareness, but in strength, hope, and solidarity. Every woman facing a gynaecological cancer deserves to be heard, supported, and never feel alone. Together, we light the path toward greater understanding, earlier diagnosis, and a future filled with equal access to the best care.
Anne de Middelaer, ENGAGe Co-Chair
