September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Ovarian cancer is a group of diseases that originates in the ovaries, or in the related areas of the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum. Women have two ovaries that are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. The ovaries make female hormones and produce eggs for reproduction. Women have two fallopian tubes that are a pair of long, slender tubes on each side of the uterus. Eggs pass from the ovaries through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. The peritoneum is the tissue lining that covers organs in the abdomen.

When ovarian cancer is found in its early stages, treatment works best. Ovarian cancer often causes signs and symptoms, so it is important to pay attention to your body and know what is normal for you. Symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see your doctor, nurse, or other health care professional.

Andrea K. Friall, M.D., is a native Floridian and received her Bachelor of Science in biology from Florida State University. She went on to study at Howard University College of Medicine for her medical degree. While at Howard, Dr. Friall was recognized for her community service and leadership. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology training at Tulane University. During her internship and residency at Tulane, she received many distinguished awards honoring her performance, service and teaching.

Since 2001, Dr. Friall has been a trusted physician and partner within North Florida Women’s Care. She accepted the esteemed role of Chief Medical Officer for Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) in 2016. Her other roles within TMH have included: Medical Staff Chair, Medical Executive Committee member; Medical Staff Secretary/Treasurer; Credentials Committee Chair; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Chair.

Dr. Friall is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Chair and Legislative Vice Chair for the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, District XII, Section 1. She is also a member of the National Medical Association, the William Gunn Medical Society, and the Capital Medical Society. She has served as a board member of the Florida Obstetric and Gynecologic Society, as a board member of the American Red Cross. She enjoys teaching and her role as an Associate Clinical Professor for the FSU College of Medicine OB/GYN Clerkship.

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