Post-Menopausal WA Women Urged to Help Breast Cancer Trial

June 18th, 2007 - Media Statement

Post-menopausal WA women with a family history of breast cancer are being urged to consider taking part in a landmark medical research trial that could help prevent the disease.

The aim of the worldwide IBIS II study is to find out whether the medication Arimidex, or anastrozole, can reduce the incidence of breast cancer in post-menopausal women who have an increased risk of developing the disease. For the next five years, the IBIS II study will monitor 6,000 women across the globe.

The WA arm of the study is being partly funded by The Cancer Council Western Australia and is based at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research at QEII Medical Centre in Nedlands.

Cancer Council professor of clinical research and director of clinical trials Michael Millward said with breast cancer now affecting one in eight Australia women, research such as this was critical.

"The IBIS II study is firmly focused on looking at the possibility of preventing breast cancer, so that in future those at risk may be able to take medication to lessen their chances of developing it," Professor Millward said.

"So far, we have recruited about half of the women we need for this trial, with many of them saying they are keen to help, perhaps themselves, but most importantly, their daughters, granddaughters or great granddaughters."

Professor Millward said West Australians had proven themselves to be incredibly generous when it came to donating their time for medical research.

"We need another 58 women to complete the WA arm of the study, so we're urging post-menopausal women aged between 40 and 70 who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to consider joining the trial," he said.

Potential volunteers should call 1800 640 709.

For more information please contact:
Natalie Papadopoulos
Media Consultant for the WA Institute for Medical Research
Mobile: 0407 984 435
Office: (08) 9388 9280