This International Women’s Day we’re celebrating the extraordinary women transforming the landscape of cancer research and care, right here in Australia.
From uncovering a greater understanding of the spread of cancer cells, to revolutionising treatments and to transforming patient outcomes, women in cancer research are helping build a brighter future.
Meet the incredible researchers you’re helping support:
Improving cancer survivorship
Dr. Hannah Wardill is revolutionising cancer survivorship with research focusing on improving the quality of life for cancer survivors by addressing the debilitating side effects of cancer treatments.
Her work delves into the critical role of gut health, exploring how cancer therapies disrupt the gut environment and lead to symptoms affecting not just physical health but also social and emotional wellbeing.
The aim of her supportive oncology research is to ensure that cancer survivors regain their dignity and ability to enjoy everyday activities, such as socialising, working, and pursuing intellectual engagements, free from the fear of treatment side effects.
Halting the progression of cancer spread
Dr. Sarah Boyle is dedicated to improving breast cancer treatment, inspired by her own family’s experience with the disease. Based at the Centre for Cancer Biology, her research, funded by The Hospital Research Foundation (THRF) Group, explores how physical forces in tumours contribute to cancer growth and spread.
Dr. Boyle’s team has uncovered a pathway triggered by compressive force that makes cancer cells more invasive. By understanding this, she hopes to develop strategies to stop cancer progression and improve patient outcomes.
Beyond research, Dr. Boyle is a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness, actively fundraising for THRF Group and volunteering to speak with community groups about the importance of cancer research.
Understanding breast density and its impact on cancer detection
Dense breasts are common and normal, but they do increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. More importantly, dense tissue can make it harder to detect cancer in a mammogram—like trying to spot a polar bear in a snowstorm. Since breast density can't be determined by appearance or feel, it can only be assessed through a mammogram.
Associate Professor Wendy Ingman from the University of Adelaide and Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research and her team are investigating breast density. With long-term support from Australian Breast Cancer Research, their work aims to improve access to breast density information, empowering women to make informed decisions about their breast cancer screening and risk management.
This amazing research highlights the importance of notifying women about their breast density, as high density can lead to missed cancers on screening mammograms. However, it’s also crucial to communicate this information sensitively to help minimise anxiety and stress.
The Hospital Research Foundation Group proudly supports A/Prof Ingman’s work, helping to advance this important research.
