Friday, 15 October 2010
Today at National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre’s (NBOCC)* Pink Ribbon Lunch the Hon Nicola Roxon MP, Minister for Health and Ageing will launch a new resource to assist women living with secondary breast cancer.
Secondary breast cancer (also called metastatic or advanced breast cancer) is breast cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body. New research from NBOCC* has found that approximately 7000 women alive today have been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer.
Many women find the news that breast cancer has spread more devastating than their original diagnoses and experience a range of emotions and responses.
“The diagnosis of secondary disease is a challenging time for the woman and her family. However, women with secondary breast cancer are able to lead fulfilled and active lives for many years and it is important that they can openly discuss their treatment and support needs,” said Dr Helen Zorbas, CEO NBOCC*.
Finding the Words: Starting a conversation when your cancer has progressed encourages women to start discussions about their needs including quality of life, treatment, emotional and social support with their families and healthcare team.
“While acknowledging that every individual has their own coping strategies, strengths and beliefs, this resource is designed to assist women by encouraging and empowering them to talk with the people who can support them to maintain quality of life for longer,” said Dr Zorbas.
The new resource is one in a suite of NBOCC* resources for women with secondary breast cancer. Guide for women with secondary breast cancer and When the woman you love has secondary breast cancer CD are also available to support women and their families.
NBOCC* resources are available free of charge within Australia. To order, phone 1800 624 973 or visit the resource library section of this website.
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Breast cancer in Australia
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National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre* is funded by the Australian Government and works with consumers, health professionals, cancer organisations, researchers and governments to improve care and cancer control in breast and ovarian cancer.
Media contacts:
Erin Sharp 0458 900 777