Groundbreaking ovarian cancer research funded by the Albanese Labor Government, will work to improve treatment approaches and increase the survival rate for women with ovarian cancer.
The TRACKFORWARD Project, which is the next phase of the collaboration between Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, will look at why some women have treatment resistant ovarian cancer, and why some patients have recurrent ovarian cancer. The Albanese Labor Government is delivering $386,000 to the project.
Only 49 per cent of people diagnosed with ovarian cancer are estimated to survive five years after their diagnosis.
The project will study the relevant gene mutations and consider how different treatment options could improve the survival rate for women with this diagnosis.
Currently, genetic testing rates in women living with ovarian cancer in Australia is high because women with BRCA1/2 mutations are eligible to receive specific drugs through the PBS to prevent or delay the disease returning.
This research will enable clinicians to make more informed decisions when selecting treatments for patients with progressive ovarian cancer, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care
Ged Kearney MP:
“Ovarian cancer is a devastating disease. Only half of the women who receive a diagnosis survive five years. This study will pave the way for women to have a greater chance at surviving ovarian cancer.”
“There is no screening program for ovarian cancer, and because symptoms can often be confused with other health conditions, many women are diagnosed when the cancer has spread, and it can be difficult to treat.
“Ovarian cancer is killing Australian women. It’s heartbreaking to hear the stories of lives lost and families torn apart, but this announcement gives hope around the country.
“Australia has some of the best medical researchers in the world. This additional funding for Ovarian Cancer Australia, in partnership with Peter Mac, will make sure the TRACKFORWARD project stays the course to help more women and their families now and in the future.”
As Ovarian Cancer Australia’s Chief of Advocacy and Support, Bridget Bradhurst explains:
“Research investment brings much needed hope to our community. We hear time and time again from those we support, many of whom have advanced disease, that there is significant worry of what happens when they run out of treatment options. We know that many women can respond well to initial therapy, but that unfortunately some go on to develop treatment resistance. A greater understanding of the disease can support a more personalised approach to care, ultimately improving outcomes.”
