Breast Cancer in Younger Women

There was considerable interest in the topic with the sad news of Belinda Emmett’s death the day before. The Forum had a fantastic program of speakers including breast cancer specialists:

• Dr James French, breast surgeon, discussing the issues relating to the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in younger women.

• Dr Thomas Lam, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, presenting the options for breast reconstruction

• Prof Judy Kirk, genetic oncologist, giving information about family history of breast cancer and genetic.

• Mr John Friedsam talking about communicating with family and friends

• Dr Howard Smith discussing fertility issues in young women with breast cancer

A highlight of the program was a moving account of a personal battle with breast cancer by Ms Christine Finnemore. In addition, Ms Bronwyn Chalmers gave an overview of the highly successful Soiree Support Group for young women with breast cancer.

The Forum was broadcast live on Sky channel to rural sites across Australia. After the presentations the audience had the opportunity to send questions to the panel of experts by telephone or fax.

This year’s Forum was made possible by funds raised by the Best Breast Ball 2006 hosted by Greg and Debbie Castle, a young couple affected by breast cancer. The Ball raised over $100,000 for projects for young women. The new information brochure produced by the BCI, also funded by the Ball, was also launched at the Forum. Support for the Forum was also provided by the government’s program to support rural women with breast cancer.

"The Forum was a great success," said Professor Boyages, chair of the Forum and Executive Director of the BCI. ‘The needs of younger women with breast cancer are often forgotten and this was a chance to discuss these special issues in depth. We were proud that the Forum was attended by hundreds of women in 44 sites across the country. This is one of the most satisfying events that we have on our program because it gives rural women equal access to important up-to-date information about breast cancer.’

Public Forum 2007 will be held in November next year. Watch the BCI’s website www.bci.org.au for details in the new year.