Encouraging Women To Be More Outspoken

Novartis And Nz Breast Cancer Foundation - Encouraging Women To Be More Outspoken

Encouraging women to speak up when it comes to their own health is the inspiration behind a series of free seminars being run by The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, and co-sponsored by Novartis New Zealand.

The seminars, to be held in late March, will help empower women to become involved in the management of their own health needs.

Sharon Wilson, oncology product manager for Novartis, believes the seminar series will have a powerful effect on the women who attend.

"Each year more than 2000 women in New Zealand are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is essential that women, particularly those going through a difficult period such as a breast cancer diagnosis, understand what they are going through, what treatment options are available and how their disease will be managed. For most women, it is a matter of making sure they know it's alright to ask questions," says Ms Wilson.

"Novartis is committed to providing the Foundation with the resources to continue this important aspect of breast cancer education," she says.

Rosie Horton, president of The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, says without sponsors and supporters such as Novartis the organisation would not be able to implement initiatives like the seminar series.

"We're delighted Novartis is taking an active role in supporting and educating the local community. We believe this type of activity could directly contribute to the survival of New Zealand women by enabling them to better articulate their fears and concerns about their condition and thereby obtain the answers they need to enable them to maintain an optimistic and healthy approach to their future."

Presented by leading US medical oncologist, Dr John Link, the free seminars will be held in Auckland (March 25), Hamilton (March 26), Wellington (March 27) and Christchurch (March 24). They will highlight the significance and value of teaching women about advocacy and will cover the following topics: * The history of breast cancer advocacy * Breast cancer research (including financial support, government, pharmaceutical, philanthropic, influence on politicians) * Advocacy opportunities for doctors, government and the pharmaceutical industry.

To register for the free seminar in your region, or for further information, please call the Foundation, TelstraClear Tollfree 0800 902 732 or register online at http://www.nzbcf.org.nz

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