Media release
15 May 2008
$31 million allocated to National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre to improve access to breast prostheses
National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre has welcomed an additional $31 million funding over five years from the Australian Government to allow all Australian women who have had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer to access external prostheses.
This Federal budget measure will allow for the replacement of a woman’s prostheses every two to five years.
“This is a significant acknowledgement from the Australian Government of the importance of practical, emotional and financial support required throughout a woman’s breast cancer journey,” said Dr Megan Keaney, Chair of the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre.
“Breast prostheses help to restore a woman’s body image after surgery for breast cancer. This funding will help to alleviate concerns about accessing prostheses that can add to the emotional burden of women and their families.
“National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre looks forward to working with the Australian Government and key stakeholders in the cancer community to honour this commitment to women with breast cancer across the country,” said Dr Keaney.
National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre is funded by the Australian Government and works with consumers, health professionals, cancer organisations, researchers and governments to improve health outcomes in breast and ovarian cancer.
Media contact: Bree Stevens 0438 209 833