The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF) was established in 1991 by the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists (SGO) to promote public awareness about the prevention, early detection and treatment of gynecologic cancers. SGO, with approximately 1,200 members, is the only national professional organization for gynecologic oncologists. All SGO members are members of the Foundation.

Gynecologic oncologists are board-certified obstetrician/gynecologists with an additional three to four years of specialized training in treating gynecologic cancers from an American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology-approved program. This subspecialty program provides training in the biology and pathology of gynecologic cancers, as well as in all forms of treatment for these diseases, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and experimental treatments.

In addition to engaging in public education, GCF also supports research and training related to gynecologic cancers. GCF is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization that advances its mission by increasing public and private funds that aid in the development and implementation of programs to meet these goals.

Examples of these programs include:

• Educational brochures on each of the major gynecologic cancers, including cervical cancer, endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer
• Educational presentations on the major gynecologic cancers
• Public education campaigns, such as the National Cervical Cancer Public Education Campaign
• Web-based educational information via the Women’s Cancer Network
• Courses on the major gynecologic cancers for women living with these cancers taught by leading experts and offered through the United States
• Annual research awards and grants to encourage young investigators to pursue gynecologic cancer-related research
• Collaborative programs with gynecologic cancer advocacy organizations facilitated by GCF Allied Support Group, consisting of 31 national organizations committed to women’s gynecologic health

The Gynecologic Foundation believes that where there is knowledge, there is hope.