The importance of research

It is extremely important that all new therapies and procedures associated with breast cancer care be scientifically proven and long term safety determined before they can be recommended for general or standard use.   In New Zealand, breast cancer clinical trials are available at Cancer Centres or Breast Cancer clinics in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dundedin.

Breast cancer is not just one disease, there are many types and stages which all need different treatments.  It is important that women find out which type they have so they can receive the best treatment for their type of cancer.  Women participating in good quality cancer trials, on average do better, yet only a minority have this opportunity.   Thanks to the contribution of women, research staff, scientists and clinicians, steady advances are being made in breast cancer care through good quality research.   These advances result in improved chances of a good outcome for women diagnosed with breast cancer.