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June 2024
New Treatment For Estrogen Receptor Positive Advanced Breast Cancer
Thanks to the support of people like you, National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is funding breast cancer research that saves lives. Today we want to share one of the world-class research projects we have been able to fund because of your generosity. NBCF-funded researcher Professor Elgene Lim has produced results which give hope to people whose breast cancer has progressed despite being treated with anti-estrogen therapy.
Approximately 70% of breast cancers are Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+), which means that these breast cancer subtypes express estrogen receptors, which are stimulated by circulating estrogens leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
ER+ breast cancers are treated with anti-estrogen therapy to reduce either the levels of the hormone estrogen or to reduce the amount and function of estrogen receptors. Although current treatments are effective, people may develop therapy resistance to conventional anti-estrogen therapies and their cancers subsequently progress.
“No one individual or specific technology has the answer to how to reach zero breast cancer deaths. Collaboration between scientists, doctors and patients is the key to success in establishing a pipeline from discovery right through to clinical trials,” said Professor Elgene Lim.
- NBCF-funded researcher,
Professor Elgene Lim
In the early phases of a clinical trial an oral anti hormonal therapy was investigated for the first time in advanced breast cancer. The initial trial produced positive results that could pave the way for more effective treatments for people whose breast cancers have progressed despite being treated with anti-estrogen therapy.
Your incredible support means we can continue to fund research that can save lives and ensure that together we get closer to our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. Thank you!
Around 1 in 500 Australian men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Josh who has lived experience of breast cancer has shared his experience as part of Men’s Health Week to help other men understand their risk and the importance of early detection for survival.
Men’s Health Week is a week celebrated annually from June 10-16 to focus on the different ways we can keep men and boys healthier. The focus this year is men’s health checks – this story aims to encourage men to also get checked for breast cancer.
Josh was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 at age 34. He wasn't aware that men could get breast cancer, so his diagnosis came as a big shock. "Initially dismissed by doctors, my changes in my nipple changes got worse Eventually, a mammogram and biopsy led to my breast cancer diagnosis after an anxious two-week wait. The day I received my diagnosis was a complete blur,” said Josh.
He recalls that treatment was extremely difficult, having chemotherapy, radiation and a double mastectomy. But with the love and support from his wife, children, family and close friends, Josh was able to get through all his treatments.
Josh’s inspiring story shows the overlooked reality of breast cancer in men. His story also shines light on the importance of not only raising awareness for breast cancer in men but also the importance of early detection.
Members from our Sydney Circle of Giving group recently attended a presentation and facility tour at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research where they got an update about their aligned project headed by NBCF-funded researcher, Associate Professor Clare Stirzaker.
Circle of Giving members were given an update on the research by Associate Professor Clare Stirzaker and Dr Darren Korbie.
The project aims to develop a blood test that will detect all breast cancer subtypes. While most people with breast cancer respond to treatment, breast cancer will return in about 30% of people. There is an urgent need to develop less invasive, more sensitive and more reliable tests to monitor the effectiveness of treatments and detect the early recurrence of cancer.
NBCF’s Circle of Giving initiative brings together a network of like-minded, influential women who are passionate about philanthropy and have a particular interest in breast cancer research. Since its inception in 2015, the Circle of Giving initiative has raised nearly $2 million nationally.
To find out more about becoming a member of our Circle of Giving groups in Sydney or Melbourne, or to discuss forming a new Circle of Giving, please contact: Kay Schubach at kay.schubach@nbcf.org.au or 02 8098 4836.
We are excited to introduce an exciting new collaboration with Sally Hansen, through the launch of their Miracle Gel Paint ‘Em Pink Collection.
The inspiration behind creating this vibrant range of pink polishes isn’t just about looking great – it's about creating a better future for the 57 Australians who are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
The collection features six shades of pink, which symbolises hope and empowerment, and will be sold in retailers, including Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and Big W from May 30 - August 22, 2024. For every polish sold, $1 will be donated to game-changing breast cancer research.
As part of this collaboration, Sally Hansen have partnered with prominent ambassadors, including Harry Garside and his mother Kate Garside who has lived experience of breast cancer, Jules Robinson, and Jasmine TXO to elevate awareness of the campaign and its purpose.
With an ambitious goal of $40,000, Sally Hansen is dedicated to making a significant contribution that will support groundbreaking research, early detection methods, and preventative treatments. By rallying behind this cause, Sally Hansen aims to make a tangible difference.
Express your style by painting your nails pink while also raising awareness and funds to support our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. Show your support by grabbing a bottle (or two) of pink polish from the Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Paint 'Em Pink Collection.
Partner spotlight
Double A Premium Copy Paper
Premium copy paper brand, Double A is paper with a purpose. Double A has been actively supporting our vision to achieve Zero Deaths from breast cancer since 2005. In this time, Double A have successfully raised over $1.3 million to help fund world-class breast cancer research.
For every ream of Double A paper purchased, a donation is made but their dedication to the cause doesn’t stop there. Double A actively involves their entire network including clients and friends in their fundraising initiatives. Recently, Mainfreight joined forces with Double A to demonstrate their commitment to help fund breast cancer research by hosting a highly successful Pink Ribbon Breakfast. They also recently took part in the Mother’s Day Classic.
Double A’s commitment to the cause is mirrored by their Australian representative, Tim Irvine, who regularly shares breast cancer messaging across his personal platforms, advocating for awareness and support.
Double A’s remarkable dedication to fundraising for breast cancer research matches their quality of products. Double A paper ensures that your documents are nothing short of impressive, offering a new level of smoothness and professionalism.
Learn more about Double A Paper here: Double A Premium Copy Paper - https://nbcf.org.au/partner/double-a-premium-copy-paper/
