Our Mission
Every Five Minutes is a New England-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing early detection and awareness of the full spectrum of gynecological cancers. We aim to mobilize communities of women who have the resources, networks, and influence to change outcomes — for themselves, and for every woman who comes after them. The organization is committed to education, awareness, and funding initiatives that help women understand their bodies, recognize symptoms, and push for answers.
what we do
In 2025, Every Five Minutes invested $100,000 directly into Yale-based gynecologic cancer research,
From uncovering immune evasion mechanisms to advancing early detection in high-risk women, these targeted grants focused on ovarian and endometrial cancer reflect our commitment to accelerating scientific discovery while ensuring that every person affected by gynecological cancer receives more effective and inclusive care.
Our second annual Fall Luncheon is coming up on September 23rd at the Belle Haven Club. We're delighted to welcome back Dr. Ratner, joined by leading hormone specialist Dr. Alicia Robbins, for an engaging and informative conversation centered around women's health.
How Your Donations Made an Impact
Through a $100,000 investment, Every Five Minutes funded four innovative research initiatives focused on improving prevention, detection, treatment, and quality of life for people affected by gynecologic cancers.
$40,000 – Understanding How Ovarian Cancer Hides from the Immune System
Elena Ratner, MD, MBA & Z. Ping Lin, PhD
Ovarian cancer is highly skilled at evading the body's natural immune defenses, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of recurrence. This research investigates the biological pathways that allow ovarian cancer cells to suppress immune responses and continue growing. By identifying new therapeutic targets, the study may help improve future immunotherapies and create more effective treatment options for ovarian cancer patients.
$30,000 – Integrating Exercise into Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Yang Yang-Hartwich, PhD
Many ovarian cancer patients ask whether exercise can improve treatment outcomes and reduce recurrence risk. This research examines how physical activity affects tumor growth, immune function, treatment response, and chemotherapy side effects. The goal is to develop evidence-based exercise strategies that can become part of comprehensive ovarian cancer care, helping patients live longer and maintain a better quality of life during and after treatment.
$20,000 – Earlier Detection of Endometrial Cancer in High-Risk Women
Clare Flannery, MD
Rates of endometrial cancer are rising rapidly among younger women, particularly those with obesity, diabetes, irregular menstrual cycles, and other risk factors. This project seeks to identify endometrial cancer and precancerous conditions earlier, when treatment is most effective and fertility-preserving options may still be available. The research will also help uncover which metabolic and hormonal factors place women at the greatest risk, creating opportunities for earlier intervention and prevention.
$10,000 – Improving Gynecologic Cancer Care for LGBTQ+ Patients
Iman Berrahou, MD
LGBTQ+ individuals remain significantly underrepresented in gynecologic cancer research, leaving important questions about cancer risk, diagnosis, treatment experiences, and outcomes unanswered. This study will collect critical data on LGBTQ+ patients with gynecologic cancers and explore barriers to care, healthcare experiences, and potential disparities in outcomes. The findings will help create more inclusive, equitable, and patient-centered cancer care for all individuals affected by gynecologic cancers.
Get Involved
Join us in making a difference in our community. Volunteer your time, donate to our cause, or attend one of our events. Together, we can create a better future.
Signs & symptoms
While these symptoms may be vague and easily overlooked, they serve as the body's early warning signs for potential issues related to women's health. Individually, they may not seem alarming, but if they persist for more than seven days, it's crucial to seek medical advice for early detection of conditions such as gynecological cancer.
Gynecological Cancer Awareness
Contact Us
Every Five Minutes
Information from Every Five Minutes is for general education only and not medical advice. It's important to recognize that early detection of gynecological cancer can significantly impact women's health. Since everyone's health is different, always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making medical decisions or starting any treatment.
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