Prevent Breast Cancer proudly hosted its first-ever Research Conference on 24th and 25th of September 2024, at INNSiDE by Melia in Manchester City Centre. This two-day event was a milestone for the organisation, bringing together some of the brightest minds in breast cancer prevention research.
The conference fostered crucial discussions on topics like Breast Density and Stratified Screening, Genomic Risk Prediction and Ethnicity, and Targeted Breast Cancer Prevention, offering a comprehensive look at how risk prediction and prevention strategies can shape the future.
The conference was organised by Prevent Breast Cancer and leading clinicians and scientists Professor Cliona Kirwan, Lester Barr, Sumohan Chatterjee, Dr Sacha Howell, and Professor Rob Clarke, offering an interdisciplinary platform for exploring original research and clinical developments. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with presentations from both local and international experts, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration.
Key Highlights
With a focus on risk prediction and prevention, the conference featured keynote presentations from some of the most respected figures in the field. Professor Fiona Gilbert from The University of Cambridge provided an exciting update on the UK’s BRAID study and its integration into personalised screening efforts. Professor Adetunji Toriola from Washington University discussed the role of Denosumab in premenopausal women with high breast density. Dr Andrea De Censi from Genoa, Italy, highlighted his groundbreaking work on low-dose therapy studies for risk reduction, while Professor Rama Khokha from the University Health Network, Toronto, shared her insights into breast cancer prevention through understanding precursor biology.
In addition to these keynote presentations, the event covered a wide range of topics including genetics, polygenic risk scores, breast density, and lifestyle interventions. Attendees earned CPD points while deepening their understanding of innovative breast cancer prevention strategies.
A Platform for Emerging Research
Three promising scientists were invited to present their latest work in proffered paper presentations. Five took part in a Dragons’ Den-style session where they pitched their research ideas for a chance to win a Prevent Breast Cancer grant of up to £10,000. In a surprise announcement, it was revealed that all five participants would receive funding, making this live grant-making round one of the conference’s standout moments.
Interactive Panel Discussion
Another highlight of the conference was an interactive Panel Discussion titled “How Can We Implement Risk Prediction and Prevention?” chaired by Professor Cliona Kirwan. This dynamic session invited delegates to engage with a panel of experts, focusing on how breast cancer prediction and prevention strategies can be translated into real-world public policy and NHS frameworks.
The session was opened by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Manchester, who shared his personal connection to breast cancer prevention, setting the tone for the discussion. Rebecca Hartley, a patient representative and Prevent Breast Cancer ambassador, was also invited to the stage, bringing a crucial patient perspective to the forefront.
In the ‘Risk Prediction’ segment, Lester Barr, Dr Emma Woodward, and Professor David French proposed ideas on personalised risk prediction as an NHS service, population gene testing to reduce rates of breast cancer, and personalised breast screening for the NHS. The conversation then opened to the floor, allowing delegates to explore the challenges and opportunities these strategies might face when implemented on a national level.
The second half of the session focused on ‘Prevention’, with Professor Michelle Harvie, Dr Sacha Howell, and James Harvey discussing public policy changes needed to reduce rates of breast cancer, how to improve access to preventative medication, and to risk-reducing surgery. The audience then engaged with the speakers about these preventative options and Rebecca Hartley added her invaluable insights from a patient’s point of view.
“This meeting is one of the best I attended this year”
Professor Rama Khokha praised the event, stating
“It had such an excellent mix of local and international attendees and well highlighted the dynamic Manchester scene in breast cancer prevention research and clinical translation. Frankly, this meeting is one of the best I attended this year.”
Delegates also commended the seamless organisation and high standards, with one noting,
“I have organised and been at many conferences, and can attest, this was top quality! The presenters, facilities, and overall fluency of the event were excellent.”
We are thrilled with the success of our inaugural conference and look forward to building on this momentum in the years to come. The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of our headline sponsors Hologic, TheWell BioScience, Gilead Sciences and Exact Sciences, as well as other sponsors Endomag, and Berkeley Genetics.
Stay tuned for details on next year’s event as we continue our mission to prevent breast cancer for future generations.
About Prevent Breast Cancer
Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.
