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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.
It’s almost time again to Step Up to Breast Cancer with us! This August, we invite you to take part in a powerful initiative that combines physical fitness with a shared commitment to raising awareness and funds for world-class breast cancer research. Step Up to Breast Cancer with us and complete 10,000 steps a day for 31 days during August. You’ll be able to tell your friends and family that you’ve completed the equivalent of five marathons, all while supporting groundbreaking breast cancer research.
Arlene has stepped up to breast cancer for the last three years. In January 2019, Arlene was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 37 years old. Her biopsy results came out positive for invasive ductal carcinoma. After receiving a lumpectomy and undergoing 20 weeks of chemotherapy, Arlene decided to undergo a risk reduction bilateral mastectomy. She feels fortunate that her breast cancer was detected early, as her cancer cells were easily cleared by the treatment she received.
Arlene was inspired to fundraise for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) because she knows how crucial breast cancer research is. She said, ‘It will be amazing to discover how to prevent and manage breast cancer, but this can only be achieved through research funded by organisations like NBCF.’ With two beautiful daughters, Arlene hopes for a future free from deaths due to breast cancer. That’s why she’s inspired by our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
Register today and join Arlene in Stepping Up to Breast Cancer! https://fundraise.nbcf.org.au/register/step-up/individual
NBCF are searching for Community Ambassadors. We are looking for individuals in South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland who are interested in sharing their story.
Our Community Ambassadors work with us to raise awareness and funds for research by sharing their breast cancer experience to help demonstrate the real-life impact of breast cancer.
We are grateful for our Community Ambassador’s like Jessica who share their story to give others hope. Jessica was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. She was just 29 when she discovered a lump in her breast. Her husband Matt was there with her every step of the way. They now have a beautiful baby boy.
If you are interested in sharing your story, apply to become an NBCF Community Ambassador today at https://nbcf.org.au/volunteer/community-ambassador/
