New Investment in Breast Cancer Research

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation announces 34 new research projects

GUELPH, ON, Aug. 21, 2013 /CNW/ - Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) is building on its commitment to fund high quality research across the breast cancer continuum, by investing $8.4 million in projects across Ontario, including a grant to Dr. Salma Abdelmagid in Guelph to study the effects of different types of omega fatty acids, which could help to identify new ways to prevent breast cancer.

As the largest funder of breast cancer research in Canada, CBCF funds research that is changing the landscape of what is known about how to prevent, detect, diagnose and treat breast cancer. The Foundation also funds a wide range of training fellowships that advance knowledge and talent at Canada's top research institutes and hospitals.

"Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in Canadian women over the age of 20, and with one in nine women diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, we know there is still much more we can do to prevent and treat breast cancer," said Sandra Palmaro, CEO, CBCF-Ontario.

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation funds innovative research that aims to reduce the incidence of breast cancer, lower mortality rates and support women and their families who experience breast cancer.

Most breast cancers are caused by a number of different factors - many of which are modifiable. Diet is one factor that has been linked to breast cancer development, but specific information about the types of food leading to or protecting from the development of cancer is not well known.

In the lab at the University of Guelph, Dr. Abdelmagid will study the effects of two kinds of omega fatty acids commonly found in food: different omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to protect against breast cancer, and different omega-6 fatty acids, which are thought to promote disease development. Her project is designed to demonstrate the different effects of each type of omega fatty acid, which will help to identify new approaches for stopping breast cancer before it starts.

"There are very few researchers working on breast cancer prevention through diet.  It's a subject we need to focus on," said Dr. Abdelmagid, CBCF-funded post doctoral fellow with the University of Guelph.  "Although the mortality rate of breast cancer has significantly declined, it's still the most common cancer in women today.  It's a very difficult disease with a tremendous burden on patients and the health care system."

Breast cancer mortality rates have decreased by 42 percent since the peak in 1986 in large part due to research advancements which have improved earlier detection, diagnosis and treatment. Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation supports and advocates for the breast cancer community through health education programs and public policy focusing on risk reduction and early detection.

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure will take place on Sunday, October 6 in nearly 70 communities across Canada. It's the largest single-day, community-driven fundraising event in support of breast cancer research, education and awareness.

"The CIBC Run for the Cure is one of our signature fundraising events and people are welcomed to take part by running, walking, volunteering or donating," said Terri Millar, a volunteer Run director in Guelph.

Visit runforthecure.org for more information on how to participate, donate or volunteer.

Click here to review a complete list of CBCF's newest grantees.
Click here to find out how to get involved with the CIBC Run for the Cure.
Click here for important updates to CBCF-Ontario Region's Funding Programs for Fall 2013.

About the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is the leading community-driven organization in Canada dedicated to creating a future without breast cancer. Our investments in innovative and relevant research and education have led to progress in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. Since 1986, we have been at the forefront of a nationwide movement supporting and advocating for the breast cancer community. Join us at www.cbcf.org.

SOURCE: Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Ontario Region

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CBCF-ONTARIO REGION OR TO SET UP AN INTERVIEW:

Megan Primeau
Communications Manager
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Ontario Region
416-815-1313 ext. 208
647-405-2830
[email protected]