The Movember Foundation and the National Breast Cancer Foundation are joining forces for the first time, funding research to help transform the lives of men and women around the world diagnosed with prostate and breast cancer.
The partnership is the first of its kind between two organisations focusing on research for these cancers. The grant will bring researchers of both diseases together and has the potential to rapidly advance new treatments and methods of care for prostate and breast cancer (and possibly ovarian cancer), compared to the current tumour-specific approach.
In Australia, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, highlighting the importance of the partnership to stop our parents, partners, siblings and friends dying too young.
Paul Villanti, Executive Director of Programs for the Movember Foundation said the grant highlights the shared vision of both organisations to work towards reducing the number of deaths from prostate and breast cancers.
“We know from previous research that patients with genetic mutations common to prostate, breast and ovarian cancers can react to the same treatment,” said Villanti.
“This project will help us explore in further detail the commonalities that exist between these diseases, which could lead to the transformation of how we treat patients, and ultimately see less people dying from them.”
Dr Alessandra Muntoni, Director of Research Investment at the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) said that the research grant scheme with the Movember Foundation is an innovative approach that is in line with the evolving landscape of medical research.
“Our collaboration with Movember really symbolises a giant leap forward for funding Australian cancer researchers in a particularly challenging funding landscape,” said Muntoni.
“These grants will really give Australian cancer researchers the ability to take their research to the next level.
“It will also give them enormous opportunities to work and be recognised alongside Australia’s best in cancer research, while aligning with two leading research-focused cancer charities.”