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TOWARDS
ZERO
HOPE FOR ER+
BREAST CANCER PATIENTS
– Professor Wayne Tilley,
NBCF-funded researcher
November 2023
NBCF-funded researcher, Professor Wayne Tilley, is exploring a new form of hormone therapy that could save the lives of more women diagnosed with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer.
Estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for around 70% cases. While existing hormone therapy can be very effective for many women, around 30% of ER+ breast cancers are resistant or develop resistance to treatment. This can lead to the cancer spreading – or metastasing – at which stage it becomes incredibly difficult to treat. Metastasis is the leading cause of breast cancer related deaths.
Professor Wayne Tilley’s research is exploring an alternative treatment option to help improve the survival rate of those diagnosed with ER+ breast cancer.
Most breast cancers, including almost all ER+ tumours, have androgen receptors (ARs). ARs are naturally occurring receptors, that when activated by androgen hormones, can limit the growth of normal breast tissue. While androgen hormones are predominantly found in men, they are also present in lower levels in women. When stimulated, these ARs can limit a tumour’s growth.
In his previous NBCF-funded project, Professor Tilley and his team discovered that activating ARs can be more effective at preventing tumour growth than existing hormone therapies. His team’s current work builds on this earlier study to prove that therapy targeting ARs can prevent the spread of breast cancer cells. If proven, this game-changing treatment will pave the way for more effective treatments for women diagnosed with ER+ breast cancer and help us get closer to our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
The work of Professor Tilley would not be possible without the generosity of people like you. We cannot thank you enough.
“It is important to have a vision that provides hope of eradicating this disease. By advancing a novel targeted therapy for metastatic ER positive breast cancer, we can strike at the heart of the disease and achieve a confident outcome for those diagnosed and their families.”
- NBCF-funded researcher,
Professor Wayne Tilley
ANDROGEN COUNTERBALANCES ESTROGEN-DRIVEN BEAST CANCER
This new study proposes a new hormone-based treatment strategy involving activation of androgen receptors to prevent breast cancer metastasis.
HOW SMALL CHANGE IS CHANGING THE GAME
ME Bank is committed to doing good. And it’s helping us reach Zero Deaths from breast cancer one transaction at time.
ME has been helping Australians get ahead since 1994. And for nearly two decades, the digital bank has also been helping NBCF make progress towards our mission of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
ME first became a major sponsor of the Mother’s Day Classic in 2005 and has since raised awareness and over $2 million for NBCF through various fundraising initiatives, community engagement and education.
Most recently, it launched its Pink SpendME transaction account, donating 1c to NBCF every time a customer taps their digital card.
We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing commitment of partners like ME. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to continue funding critical, innovative research that will change the future for the thousands of Australians touched by breast cancer.
“We believe in supporting good causes and making a difference for all communities. We feel very passionate about the work that NBCF does in helping those affected by breast cancer, and proud that our donations go towards vital research helping reach the ultimate goal of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.”
- Martine Jager, CEO ME Bank
& Group Executive of Retail Banking
BREAKING THE STIGMA
Breast cancer is often incorrectly thought of as a disease that only affects women. You might be surprised to learn that about 200 Australian men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Here are the facts.
RISK FACTORS FOR MEN
It’s difficult to determine what causes cancer in men, but there are some factors, similiar to women, that are linked to the disease. Although these factors increase your risk, they don’t mean you will develop breast cancer.
Common risk factors include:
While there’s no known way to prevent breast cancer, the following lifestyle choices can reduce your risks:
Advancements in breast cancer research positively impact men and women alike. Support us in creating a brighter future for all Australians at nbcf.org.au/breast-cancer-in-men
HONORING MEN'S JOURNEYS
For Men’s Health Month this November we pay tribute to the resilience of men with breast cancer. Learn about the story of Scott, a notable NBCF Community Ambassador, and his words of encouragement.
“Six years ago, I noticed a lump near my nipple in the shower. I showed my wife and not long later, I had a lumpectomy and started treatment immediately. Regular check-ups have kept me clear. Be fully aware of yourself, especially if you have daughters. Understand your family history, stay vigilant, and be proactive about your health.”
- Scott, diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017
Scott's experience shows the value of research, underscoring the necessity of awareness and early detection in men's breast cancer survival.
SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:
DRIVING BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FORWARD
TRED Outdoors is helping 4x4 drivers navigate rough terrain and supporting recovery from breast cancer at the same time.
TRED Outdoors has been supporting NBCF for the last three years. The business donates a portion of sales for selected TRED Pink products sold online and through retailers in Australia. And this year, it hosted an epic 3-day fundraising event.
The NBCF fundraiser weekend, held in September, included a stunt show, 4x4 drives, hill climb challenges, live music and other activities for the whole family, with proceeds going towards breast cancer research. With over 700 people attending, it was a hit among the 4x4 community and their families and friends.
For the General Manager of TRED Outdoors, breast cancer research is personal – a close family member was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. Support from organisations like TRED Outdoors is critical in enabling us to power research into breast cancer and get closer to our goal of Zero Deaths. Thank you, TRED Outdoors for everything you’ve done and continue to do to give hope to people living with breast cancer and their families.
“I am so fortunate I can help my mum and anyone who has breast cancer through funding breast cancer research.”
-Chris Roberts, Tred Outdoors, General Manager
