NEW BREAST CANCER CONSUMER GROUP

  BREAST UK was founded in April 1999 to represent UK consumer views in breast cancer research.

  BREAST UK aims to identify and influence the research agenda in the areas of causes, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer, with particular emphasis on the involvement of those with breast cancer in the research process.

  It seeks to:

1.  Identify and comment on existing areas of research in breast cancer.

2.  Identify priorities for future research and funding in relation to:

(a)  Causes and prevention;


(b)  Epidemiology;


(c)  Disease process and pathology;


(d)  Treatments (orthodox and complementary) and their side effects;


(e)  Patients' views, values and interests, and


(f)  NHS management issues

3.  Support appropriate policy changes designed to reduce the incidence of, and mortality from, breast cancer in the light of relevant evidence.

4.  Disseminate information and raise awareness of the views of people with breast cancer on research.

5.  Seek representation on bodies that initiate research projects.

  BREAST UK is chaired by Heather Goodare, a 13-year survivor of breast cancer who serves as a patient representative on the Advisory Committee of the Cochrane Cancer Network, and was from 1995-99 on the Editorial Board of the British Medical Journal. Its Secretary is Clare Dimmer, a 6-year survivor of breast cancer, and a graduate of the US science programme for consumer advocates, Project LEAD (Leadership, Education and Advocacy Development).

  Members include healthcare professionals and representatives of breast cancer research charities; a majority are people with personal experience of breast cancer. The group is seeking charitable status in view of its educational aims.