Detection and Prevention of Gynecologic Cancers

Detection and Prevention of Gynecologic Cancers

Ovarian Cancer Early Detection Program

The Northwestern Medicine Ovarian Cancer Early Detection and Prevention Program (NOCEDPP), under the direction of Lee Shulman, MD, is a collaborative effort between Northwestern University and the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

This collaborative effort combines the clinical screening of women at high risk of ovarian cancer with the development of new serum and plasma tumor markers for the early detection of ovarian cancer.

What is the purpose of the NOCEDPP?

The purpose of the NOCEDPP is to identify those women who are at increased risk for developing ovarian cancer and to develop new tests to help detect ovarian cancer at an early, treatable stage.

The NOCEDPP provides focused, high quality, innovative care and services for asymptomatic women at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. The hallmark of the program is the coordinated, multidisciplinary services provided during each comprehensive clinic visit.

The NOCEDPP, along with the sections of Gynecologic Oncology, Hematology/Oncology, Surgical Oncology, and the Cancer Genetics Program have joined forces with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Cancer Center provides a full range of oncology services and provides access to specialized research, clinical trials and diagnostic services.

Who is eligible to participate?

Women who are age 18 and older and meet at least one of the following criteria are eligible to participate:

  • Have one or more first degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter) with ovarian, primary peritoneal or fallopian tube cancer
  • Have two or more second degree relatives with either ovarian, primary peritoneal, fallopian tube, colon, uterine and/or pancreatic cancer
  • Have a personal history of or first degree relative with a BRCA1, BRCA2 or Lynch syndrome gene mutation
  • Have an increased risk of ovarian cancer as deemed by a certified genetic counselor