You have returned to the top of the page.
TOWARDS
ZERO
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.
How Loss Inspired a Lifelong Commitment
Linda and Janine have been friends since 1973, sharing life’s highs and lows for over 50 years. But nothing prepared them for the heartbreak of losing a dear friend to metastatic breast cancer in January 2025.
“Knowing someone we love has died from such a cruel disease was devastating,” they share.
“No one should have to endure what our friend did, and no family should have to say goodbye too soon.”
With other close friends and family also facing cancer and serious illness, Linda and Janine are more passionate than ever about supporting breast cancer research. They donate regularly and have included a gift in their Wills.
“We believe in a future where no one dies from breast cancer. Every breakthrough gives another family more time, more memories and precious moments together.”
By supporting NBCF, Linda and Janine are keeping their friend’s memory alive in the most powerful way — by helping to create a future filled with hope, where fewer families face the pain of losing someone they love.
We understand that adding a Gift in your Will is a very personal decision. If you would like to talk to our team, please get in touch at bequests@nbcf.org.au or phone Diana on 02 8098 4848.