THE FUTURE OF BREAST CANCER IN NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA

Breast cancer research across New Zealand and Australia has many similarities in terms of patient population, but because availability and access to medications differs, trials available in both countries can sometimes be different.

Dr Nicholas Zdenkowski, medical oncologist and medical advisor at Breast Cancer Trials (BCT) Australia and New Zealand, says that within Australia the goal is to prevent and cure as many women as possible from breast cancer, by using the minimum amount of treatment necessary for effectiveness while minimising side effects. “And for women diagnosed with a BRCA-1 gene mutation, the goal is to use medication to prevent the development of cancer, through an international trial currently called BRCA-P.”

Adele Gautier, research manager at Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, confirms that most trials in New Zealand are around metastatic breast cancer.

“For women with metastatic breast cancer the aim of trials is to extend their lives and improve quality of life, with the ultimate aim of curing metastatic breast cancer by halting the spread of cancer cells, something that’s currently not possible, but most of our trials’ intention is to prevent the development of metastatic breast cancer,” says Gautier.

For women with breast cancer who would like children, Dr Zdenkowski confirms that success depends on age and ovarian reserve, because chemotherapy can contribute to infertility. “One option for fertility preservation is to have an egg harvest prior to treatment and store embryos, followed by IVF cycles at the appropriate time, and for women with early stage breast cancer who undergo chemotherapy an ovarian suppression monthly injection called Goserelin during treatment can be used to put ovaries into hibernation and after treatment this increases the likelihood of a successful natural pregnancy.”

Dr Zdenkowski’s lifestyle suggestions for anyone who is at risk of breast cancer, and after a breast cancer diagnosis, include avoiding or minimising alcohol, plus a diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains and low in saturated fat and refined sugars. Finally, reductions in breast cancer risk are seen with moderate intensity aerobic-type exercise at least five times a week, along with maintaining a normal weight.