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June 2025
BREAKING THE CHAIN
Understanding the complexity of hereditary breast cancer
Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, world-class research into hereditary breast cancer is making real progress — and offering new hope to families across Australia.
Professor Paul James has always been fascinated with genetics and its ability to predict the future in serious diseases like breast cancer.
Now, he’s putting his knowledge and expertise into learning more about the role of complex genetics in breast cancer development in a world-class study.
Only 18% of hereditary breast cancer can be explained by a variation in a single gene, which makes it hard to detect in many families. But there are over 300 different genes associated with an increased breast cancer risk – and when combined, they can make it up to three times more likely that someone will develop the disease.
Genes are short segments of DNA found in our cells. Everyone has two copies of each gene – one from each parent. Genetic testing can identify certain genes that are known to increase breast cancer risk, but there are many we have yet to discover.
Polygenic risk score is a combined measure of genetic changes that can give a more comprehensive indication of breast cancer risk.
By analysing blood samples from women with varying levels of genetic risk factors, Professor James hopes to discover more about which combinations of genes increase risk and which ones provide protection against breast cancer – and why.
In time, he believes this research will pave the way for more targeted ways to prevent, detect and treat hereditary breast cancer.
“Everyone who donates to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is a partner in our mission to make a difference to breast cancer in our community. All the ideas we have to tackle the problem of hereditary breast cancer would be no use without their support.” - Professor Paul James, NBCF-funded researcher
Because of your support, this vital research is possible. You are helping to break the chain of hereditary breast cancer — and bring us closer to a future with Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
Jennifer’s Journey
Trekking for a future with Zero Deaths from breast cancer
Last year, Jennifer fearlessly embarked on the NBCF’s Trek Toward Zero Deaths in Tuscany, walking 100km over five days to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Having witnessed friends and family impacted by breast cancer, she was driven by a powerful purpose: honouring loved ones and funding life-saving research through NBCF.
Just two weeks before signing up for the trek, Jennifer received heartbreaking news—her close friend had been diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. Watching her friend endure surgeries and the emotional toll of treatment solidified Jennifer’s determination to make an impact.
Her journey wasn’t just about conquering a physical challenge—it was about standing with every person affected by breast cancer. Through the dedication of fundraisers like Jennifer, we continue to work towards our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. Thank you, Jennifer, for your amazing contribution!
We look forward to returning to Tuscany with our incredible supporters in 2026. With your support, we can make a difference.
Making Money Good with ME Bank
We’re proud to celebrate our long-standing partnership with ME Bank, who embody the ethos of Making Money Good. As part of this commitment, ME Bank continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in Australia who are affected by breast cancer.
In May 2023, ME Bank launched the SpendME transaction account, allowing customers to support one of five chosen charities, including NBCF. Customers who choose NBCF receive a Pink SpendME Visa Debit Card, and with every tap of their digital card, ME Bank donates 1 cent to breast cancer research.
Now entering their 13th year of Partnership with NBCF, ME Bank continues to raise awareness through internal events, such as Go Pink in June and Pink Ribbon Breakfasts, and by sharing their support across social media.
Together, ME Bank and their customers have raised over $2 million for NBCF, helping to fund world-class breast cancer research and bring us closer to our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
We are incredibly grateful for ME Bank’s continued support and shared belief in a future where no one loses someone they love to breast cancer.
Double A Premium Copy Paper
Double A deepens their commitment to Zero Deaths from breast cancer
Double A Premium Copy Paper continues their longstanding support of NBCF by increasing their financial investment and ongoing commitment to Zero Deaths from breast cancer. To celebrate this achievement, Double’s A packaging design is accented with pink highlights and proudly features their new Major Partner status.
Since the collaboration began, Double A has contributed over $1.3 million to NBCF, supporting world-class breast cancer research. This partnership not only boosts research investment but also highlights the transformative impact of corporate support on life-saving initiatives.
With this enhanced commitment, Double A solidifies its role as a champion of change and aligns perfectly with their commitment to sustainability, ensuring that Double A Paper offers impressive smoothness and professionalism for your documents through their unmatched commitment to sustainable processes.
Learn more about the Double A Paper initiative here.
More than a Gift Card, Give with Purpose
The Card Network (TCN), live by the motto “Be Generous”, a simple yet powerful reminder that giving can create a real impact. With breast cancer affecting the lives of many of their customers, colleagues, friends, and family, their partnership with NBCF is an extension of their core values.
For every Pamper Gift Card sold online or in grocery stores, TCN donates a portion of the proceeds directly to NBCF. This card is available year-round, with TCN spotlighting it during key gifting periods to encourage meaningful and purposeful gift-giving that directly supports a cause close to their hearts.
To date, through this initiative and staff-led efforts, more than $170,000 has been raised to help fund vital breast cancer research.
The team at TCN loves the opportunity to show their support for NBCF, whether that be participating in Go Pink throughout June, hosting a Pink Lunch, or creating dedicated blogs and content on their channels to raise awareness of NBCF.
Thank you to everyone who has supported this initiative.
To learn more about the Pamper Gift Card visit The Pamper Card – TCN Choice Cards .
Make a Meaningful Impact This EOFY
As the end of the financial year approaches, your organisation has a powerful opportunity to support NBCF through a tax-deductible corporate donation.
As an organisation solely funded by the generosity of corporate partners, donors, and supporters, your contribution will directly fund world-class breast cancer research and help us achieve our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
A tax-deductible donation not only provides financial benefits for your organisation but also highlights your commitment to social responsibility. It can inspire a culture of giving within your workplace, creating a ripple effect of kindness and support.
Join us in making this end of financial year truly meaningful.
Together, we can make a difference.
