Hi ladies, I believe it's time we had an update on where things are at with the collection of statistics about secondary breast cancer in Australia. I think some more pressure needs to be put on those responsible for rolling this project out, so we can actually get some updates!
No-one knows how many women are diagnosed with this disease in Australia, how many are living with it, what the ages/geographical location/cultural background etc of are of these women, what care they are receiving and the care outcomes.
Research funding levels are usually based on data, which explains why approximately only 3-4% of breast cancer research funds are directed towards secondary breast cancer. Appalling stuff!
In the spirit of "rattling some cages" to raise the profile of this issue (and receive some sort of update as to what progress has been made and when a suitable minimum data set will be in place for secondary breast cancer), I've had a go at drafting a letter to local MP's and any other people/organisations who could do with a poke and prod to get some action happening! I thought maybe those who are interested could send the letter off to their MP's and see what sort of a response we get!
If you would like to help me rattle some cages, please feel free to send a private message through and I will send you a copy of the letter. Thanks so much, Celeste ?
