The Breast Cancer Cause

Everyday, 35 Australian women are diagnosed with breast cancer and breast cancer affects more than 13,000 women in Australia every year.

The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute is a leader in the provision of breast cancer care and is the only centre to develop multidisciplinary research, clinical care, programs ranging from breast cancer screening, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and follow up. The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute has a a multi-disciplinary, patient-focused approach and there are four key programs that differentiate it from other breast care organisations:

• BreastScreen NSW Sydney West conveniently available at locations across western Sydney
• Clinical Programs that bring together all medical and allied health specialities
• Research Programs
• Education Programs to not only patients but their families, their community and also to health professionals.

In January 2009 the first BCI Sunflower Clinic was launched in store at Myer Parramatta and 7 more Sunflower Clinics have since opened at Lithgow, Katoomba, Mt Druitt, Auburn, Myer Castle Hill, Myer Penrith and Myer Blacktown  The Clinics are a dedicated space within the lingerie department of the select stores thanks to a community partnership with Myer and funding from the BCI, the Cancer Institute of NSW, Sydney West Area Health Service (SWAHS) and NSW Health.

Funds raised from the Ray of Hope events will be used to purchase a digital mammogram screening unit for a mobile BCI Sunflower Clinic that will travel to less accessible areas of Western Sydney to increase the availability of free breast screening. Mammograms conducted in the mobile unit will be beamed back to Westmead hospital for analysis. The mobile unit will also access workplaces for free checks while people are at work.