Category: Research

Sarcoma Symposium 2024

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The day began with a warm welcome from Dr Richard Boyle, Orthopaedic Oncologist Surgeon, and Director RPA Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma Unit.

Orthopaedic /bone tumour surgeon Dr Maurice Guzman then went on to provide update on action items from the 2023 Sarcoma Summit & next steps.  A copy of this presentation and the progress made is attached.

Professor David Thomas, Chief of science and strategy, Omico, Centre for Molecular Oncology UNSW delivered a compelling address on “Genomics and tumour agnostic therapies as standard of care for sarcoma patients”  This proposal is a visionary approach which delivers timely and equitable solutions to those who may otherwise have not have access to matched therapeutics.

Dr Riona Pais, Senior Staff Specialist, RPA Palliative Care Service spoke about the importance of supportive care, and what standard of care should look like for those in need.

An informative and uplifting video followed provided an insight into the “Impact of a Clinical Nurse Consultant on the sarcoma patient journey”. Aisling Byrne, Hannah Blyth, Hilary Myers, Clinical Nurse Consultants, at the RPA Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma Unit and an integral part of the patient experience.

Tayia Yeates, Service Manager, Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice introduced her presentation which stepped the audience through the facility, which was the vision of the late Kay Van Norton Poche, with her colleague touching upon the very harrowing process of end of life, highlighting a deeply moving case study of the lengths the service can go to to ensure patient’s wishes are met.

Kylie Tarleton, a proud Wiradjuri woman, Senior Manager Diversity & Inclusion TAFE NSW and Mother of sarcoma survivor, Cooper Tarleton, delivered a remarkable presentation on Strength in Culture:   Cooper’s Cancer Journey through Adolescence and Strength in Culture, often drawing on very personal experience.  This provided those present with a valuable and raw personal insight into the challenges and opportunities that lie in the treatment processes for the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island community.

The Open forum discussion convened by Mitchell Rice-Brading, Sarcoma Patient Support Advocate, Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation saw panellists Rebecca Minty, Carmen Scheffer, Prof Wayne Nichols, Dr Madeleine Strach, and Keith Cox, OAM, cover topics for discussion including genomic screening, timely and equitable access to clinical trials, and a wrap -around service for those diagnosed with sarcoma.

Questions were invited from the audience and while time was the enemy, a robust discussion took place.

After a much-needed tea break, Dr Dan Franks chaired the second session and did a superb job of what can be a very challenging role.  A/Professor Fernando Guimaraes, University of Queensland spoke about the exciting developments with Natural Killer (NK) Cell Therapy.  This trial has been proudly funded by The Tie Dye Project, The Kids Cancer Project, Tour de Cure, and Bricks and Smiles.

A/Professor Marianne Phillips, Paediatric Medical Oncologist, Perth Children’s Hospital with over 36 years’ experience in paediatric oncology, presented on the Inter-Ewing-1 trial in Australia, and the evolution of this trial, reminding us all of the importance of these very important advances for sarcomas with traditionally low survival outcomes.

Dr Maya Kansara, Head Translational Oncology Lab, Omico stepped those in the audience through the forthcoming CaSP SARC: a sarcoma research programme attached to the Australian Cancer Screening Programme CaSP.  This programme is expected to enrol around 3000 patients making it the largest of its kind in the world.

Kate Alexander, Research Manager, Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe) outlined the exciting advances in the collection of data for bone and soft tissue surgeries in NSW, which will contribute to unlocking the answers to the questions that currently exist.

Dr. Geoffrey Murphy, Senior Resident Medical Officer, RPA Orthopaedics led an enlightening talk on “Whoops Lesions”: Incidence and Outcomes of Unplanned Sarcoma Excisions and the research which is underway.  This research is designed to work out how these all-too-common occurrence can be prevented.

Christine Cockburn, CEO, Rare Cancers Australia may have been one of the last speakers, however her overview of RCA’s sarcoma patient support was pivotal to the session.  She highlighted the importance of diverse and relevant means to support those living with sarcoma.  RCA provide support to those living with rare cancers, including sarcomas and are aligned with ANZSA in their provision of support

He event finished with a Fireside chat: The impactful work of not for-profit organisations & the role of philanthropy in sarcoma research

Rebecca Minty, Founder, Bricks and Smiles, Mary Lou Minty, Bricks and Smiles, Mandy Basson, Executive Director, Sock it to Sarcoma! each spoke about their remarkable work funding research, raising awareness and supporting those living with sarcoma.

It was then a very robust networking session with the last of the guests leaving after 7.30pm!

The day would not have been possible without the support of SLHD, Insitute of Academic Surgery, RPA, and NSW Health, together with the truly wonderful behind the scenes work of Dr Sophie Hogan, Matthew Halpin, Anja Sauer, and Meghan Cue Floresca.

We look forward to seeing you all next year when we do it all again!

Sarcoma Workshop 1 - Update on 2023 Sarcoma Summit Action Plan & Service Developments - 18 Sep 24

The 2024 Sarcoma Symposium

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Registrations are now open for the 2024 Sarcoma Symposium.

 
November 8th 
Kerry Packer Theatre, 
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, 
Missenden Road, 
Camperdown
1:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
 
This is a hybrid event, and if you are unable to attend in person you are welcome to contribute online.
 
There will be an open forum, an expert panel of both those living with sarcoma, carers and sarcoma clinicians at approximately 2.20.  The audience is encouraged to participate via Slido as the aim is to have as many perspectives as there are people wishing to provide them.
 

Topics for discussion this year:

 
Should genomic screening form part of a standard of care for all sarcoma patients?  Why? When should it occur?  Will this change the treatment plan?
 Should information about all relevant clinical trials be provided to patients at the time of diagnosis? How? By who? Where should this be available?  In what format?  Why?
 
How can we as a collective enhance community awareness of sarcoma to help reduce the instance of misdiagnosis?
 
What education is needed?  For who in particular? allied health, GP’s Physiotherapists, dentists etc?  How do we do this?  forums, webinars. brochures? 
 
What are the most important elements of support from the moment of diagnosis from a patient/family perspective?
 
​Who should provide that support? How can we use technology to enhance the support provided?   Would a similar model to that of the McGrath Breast Care Nurses work for sarcoma?  Why?
 
We look forward to welcoming you on the 8th, and to provide you with an event which encourages networking and open, robust discussion for those living with sarcoma.
All clinicians, researchers, carers, family, patients, allied health professionals and those volunteering with sarcoma working are invited to attend the day, and to have their voices heard.  Please feel free to share this link.

To register

RSVP: https://www.slhd.nsw.gov.au/events/rpa-sarcoma-symposium/

Click here to join the event online:

https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/bde93b9e-e78f-4672-956f-dcbd827acba7@a687a7bf-02db-43df-bcbb-e7a8bda611a2

Should you be attending in person, please refer to the attachment and follow directions on the link provided.
Should you be travelling from interstate or a remote/regional area, please advise Tania Rice-Brading taniarb@crbf.org.au no later than the 29th October, 2024.

Programme for the event

Hudson Institute Sarcoma Accelerator Programme

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As the sun sets on #Global Sarcoma Awareness Month, we take this moment to recognise the hope that research brings to the fight against this formidable cancer.

Today, we are delighted to announce funding, and the subsequent commencement of the Sarcoma Accelerator Programme through the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne.

Under the expert supervision of Professor Ron Firestein and Associate Professor Jason Cain, this initiative will create a comprehensive collection of tumour samples from sarcoma patients.

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), these samples will be studied in intricate detail. The  Programme will provide a comprehensive collection of tumour samples from sarcoma patients and grown as avatar/cell-line models. These models will be studied in detail using cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence (AI). This approach aims to discover new, more effective treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific type of sarcoma. By understanding the unique characteristics of each tumour, we can develop targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective.

The cell line models will be comprehensively profiled in three dimensions (genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic) to provide both gene-specific and pathway-level analyses of sarcoma cancer models. The models and associated data developed through this initiative will form an invaluable resource, helping researchers identify and utilise appropriate sarcoma models for investigational research.

Significantly, data will be shared with the research community via our portal (vicpcc.org.au/dashboard). This publicly available database, already used in over 50 countries, will aid sarcoma research on a global scale.

This pioneering effort aims to discover new, more effective treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific type of sarcoma.

The Sarcoma Accelerator Programme will provide hope by focusing on personalised treatments for children with sarcoma.

We extend our deepest gratitude to thanks to the profound generosity of the Hofer Muir Philanthropic Organisation, and our individual donors whose tireless support of sarcoma in Australia support who the Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation (CRBF) to have funded the first phase of the Sarcoma Accelerator Programme at the @Hudson Institute of Medical Research.

Prof Firestein and A/Prof Cain expect this new program to be a game-changer in the fight against childhood sarcoma.

Cutting-edge sarcoma research

“We will create a comprehensive collection of tumour samples from sarcoma patients and use cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to study these samples in detail,” Prof Firestein said. “This will help us discover new treatment options that are more effective and tailored to each patient's specific type of sarcoma.”

Colin Brading, A/Chair of the Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation, remarked, “We are profoundly committed to advancing sarcoma research in Australia. The innovative research spearheaded by A/Prof Jason Cain is anticipated to pave the way for new, more effective treatments. The Hudson Institute, is a recognised global leader in paediatric cancer research, and as such, is the ideal partner for this crucial collaboration.

The potential of discovering answers to the complex questions that currently elude our brightest scientific minds has the potential to be a transformative breakthrough in the fight against childhood sarcomas. Such advancements could bring much-needed hope to
countless families affected by this devastating disease, fundamentally altering the landscape of paediatric sarcomas.

Collaborative sarcoma research providing hope

“By understanding the unique characteristics of each tumour, we can develop targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective. This approach has the potential to improve survival rates and quality of life for young patients living with sarcoma.” (A/Prof Cain)
As part of our collaboration with the Zero Childhood Cancer Program, samples will be collected from children’s hospitals across Australia and internationally as well. Sarcoma samples will be analysed using an innovative molecular pipeline developed at the
Hudson Institute of Medical Research, that streamlines the identification of cancer precision medicines.

This program will leverage advanced technologies and international collaborations to create a valuable resource for sarcoma research. The data and tumour models we develop will be shared with the global research community to accelerate the discovery of new treatments. Our goal is to bring hope to families affected by sarcoma and improve the outcomes for children with this challenging disease.

Hudson Institute’s sarcoma program includes both clinical and discovery research projects utilising a broad range of patient tissue, in vitro and in vivo preclinical models, and techniques.

 

Cancer: The Modern Plague. Prof David Thomas

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Below is a summary of Professor Thomas’s address.

Should you have any specific questions or need further assistance with the content included in Professor Thomas’s address, the original may be accessed in the video below, or feel free to contact me directly at taniarb@crbf.org.au

June 26th, Rare Cancers Day saw Rare Cancers Australia (RCA) and Omico Australia collaborate to host an address at the National Press Club by Professor David Thomas. The address, titled “Cancer: The Modern Plague,” underscored the pressing need for accessible, personalised therapeutics in cancer treatment.

Professor David Thomas: A Visionary Approach

Professor David Thomas, the Chief Science and Strategy Officer of Omico, founded the organisation in 2019. He has been instrumental in translating cutting-edge technologies into practical therapeutic advancements for cancer patients. With over 260 research publications and numerous papers in high-impact journals, Professor Thomas has received international recognition for his contributions to oncology. His vision is to ensure equitable, sustainable, and affordable access to precision oncology for all Australians diagnosed with cancer.

Rare Cancers Australia: A Mission of Support and Advocacy

RCA, under the leadership of CEO Christine Cockburn, is dedicated to improving the lives and health outcomes of Australians with rare, less common, and complex cancers. RCA believes no Australian should face their cancer journey alone and provides personalised support while advocating for better access, affordability, and quality of care.

Genomics and the Future of Cancer Treatment

Cancer is caused by genetic mutations in human DNA, and genomics plays a critical role in reading DNA and mapping cell mutations. This molecular understanding enables the identification of unique tumour codes and the development of targeted therapies. Historically, the last significant advance in the understanding of cancer was the mid-19th century introduction of the light microscope, which could identify cell makeup but not the molecular drivers of cancer. Genomics now offers the potential to identify deranged cells, leading to a significantly greater understanding and subsequently new drug targets.

Cancer Statistics and the Growing Burden of Rare Cancers

Australia sees 150,000 cancer diagnoses each year, equating to one diagnosis every ten minutes, and 135 cancer-related deaths daily.

In 2024, it is projected that rare cancer diagnoses will reach 18,000, making it the third most common cancer collective after prostate and breast cancer. Tragically, 7,000 Australians are expected to die from rare cancers in 2024, second only to lung cancer.

Globally, rare cancers claim a life every 45 seconds.

The Role of Genomics and Targeted Therapies

The integration of genomics into cancer treatment has revolutionised the identification of drug targets and the development of personalised therapies. These advancements are especially crucial for rare cancer patients, as they offer targeted and more effective treatment options. However, the benefits of these cutting-edge therapies can only be realised if patients can access them without delay.

The Critical Nature of Time for Rare Cancer Patients in Accessing Clinical Trials

Time is of the essence for rare cancer patients seeking access to clinical trials. These patients often face aggressive and rapidly progressing diseases, making timely access to innovative treatments not just beneficial, but potentially life-saving. The journey to access clinical trials is fraught with delays and barriers that can have devastating consequences for patients and their families.  These come in the form of the urgency attached due to the aggressive nature of their cancer, lengthy approval processes, and barriers to participation.

Advancements in Early-Phase Trials

20 years ago, sarcoma patients would enter into early phase clinical trials, and response rates would 1 in 20. Today, thanks to genomic profiling, an early phase trial of a new drug can be targeted at specific patients which improves outcomes to produce a 1 in 3 response rate.

These advancements highlight the transformative potential of new treatments with timely access.

It can take up to 18 months for new therapies to become accessible and equitable.  Many patients may read about new advances, however the tragic reality is many die waiting to access these trials.

To capitalise on the potential of the improved outcomes with access to trials being targeted with genomic profiling we need to speed access to trials and new therapies.

A good example of this is the use of  Doxorubicin, which is considered gold standard treatment for soft tissue sarcomas, and has been used since the 1970’s.  As a monotherapy it has a low response rate.  It is therefore reasonable to suggest that with matched therapies leveraging genomics and targeted treatment, better results may be achieved than with the use of our current best standard of care for Soft Tissue Sarcoma.

Advancements in Pan-Tumour Drug Treatments

There has been a notable increase in pan-tumour drug treatments, which are therapies designed to target common genetic mutations found across multiple types of cancer, rather than being specific to one particular type of cancer. These treatments represent a significant advancement in the field of oncology, offering broad-spectrum results that can benefit a wide range of patients.  Currently, there are seven such treatments, with projections suggesting this number will triple by 2030.

Equitable Access and Policy Change

To address these urgent needs, there must be a concerted effort to streamline approval processes and remove barriers to clinical trial participation. Policies that expedite the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) processes, similar to those achieved during the COVID-19 pandemic, can ensure that life-saving therapies reach patients faster. Equitable access to clinical trials should be a standard of care, with concerted efforts to always identify the specific challenges of patients from rural and remote areas, and the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander community.

Covid 19 and Expedited HTA Approval

Since 2020, rare cancers have claimed as many lives as COVID-19, and often disproportionately affecting our younger population. The expedition of treatment options through Health Technology Assessment (HTA) approval during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that rapid advancements in medical treatments are possible. This experience underscores the urgent need to streamline the approval processes for cancer treatments to ensure that patients receive timely and equitable access to life-saving therapies.

Government Investment in Rare Cancers 

The Australian government has invested heavily in the research programs of Omico and sister childhood research programme, ZERO through the CCIA, to  support the provision of research, genomics and novel treatments in a sustainable and equitable manner for all Australians.

Over the past year, Omico and ZERO have supported 53 clinical trials, identifying effective drug targets in one-third of participants. Over eight years, these programmes have enrolled over 15,000 patients with incurable cancers

Conclusion

For rare cancer patients, every moment counts. The critical nature of time in accessing clinical trials cannot be overstated. By expediting approval processes, increasing awareness, and reducing barriers to participation, we can provide these patients with the best possible chance to benefit from the latest advancements in cancer treatment. The goal is to make cancer a manageable disease, one that patients can live with and thrive despite, rather than a death sentence dictated by the availability of time-sensitive therapies.

Professor Thomas and his team, together with Christine Cockburn and the RCA team are working together to emphasise the need to expedite processes through the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) as they were through Covid 19, to ensure rapid and equitable access to clinical trials and personalised therapies. Their goal is to transform cancer from a fatal disease into a manageable condition, enabling patients to live, manage, and thrive despite their diagnosis.

The Dr Matthew Fisher Sarcoma Research Fund

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Tuesday 27 February was a very special day for the friends and family of Dr Matthew Fisher, a day when Dr Maya Kansara from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research presented the preliminary findings of the IL23 sarcoma sub study at a hybrid  event attended by 110 international and local guests. 

It was particularly touching to have the Canberra Sarcoma MDT take time out of their busy schedules to attend the function, with Matt’s oncologist A/Professor Paul Craft attending in person and Ms Amber Wilson, the Sarcoma Specialist Nurse dialling in. 

The sarcoma research  fund bearing Matt’s name had significantly contributed to funding the IL23 trial through CRBF.

Matt was first and foremost a doting husband to wife Naomi,  and a much loved  father to Vivienne and Sylvie.  He was also  an avid sailor, a culinary expert, and a passionate and highly talented scientist working with the government agency, IP Australia.

It was Matt’s colleagues at IP Australia who arranged a GoFundMe page to raise funds for he and his family after his shock diagnosis with rhabdomyosarcoma..  Matt however was adamant this funds be directed to clinical research for sarcoma, and within a short space of time a remarkable $100k had been amassed by family, friends and his colleagues at IP Australia.  

This outstanding result included a $30k donation from the family and friends of Alex Rodham  who was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma, and passed away one month after Matt,  Alex’s family from Bungendore, were determined to raise funds for others experiencing adversity in their community and to improve the lives of those living with sarcoma. The fund was also significantly supported by the Minty family from Canberra whose son Zac had also been diagnosed with sarcoma.  

As we continue to honour Matt’s legacy, let’s pledge to keep his passion alive and strive towards a future where sarcoma becomes a treatable cancer.   This incredible achievement is a beacon of hope for those living with this disease and a testament to the power of loved ones and an amazing community.

Matt’s family will continue to raise money for his fund when the opportunity arises. His parents recently topped up the fund to make it $100,000, and Naomi’s cousin, Louisa shaved her hair in October 2022 and raised almost $5000 for her efforts.

Special thanks to:

Dr Maya Kansara for the wonderful and insightful presentation.

Ms Kylie Bryant for the beautiful introduction and for her flawless work as MC for the event

Cassandra Mitchell and her team at IP Australia for event and venue organisation and Cassandra for closing the presentation

Senior Executives at IP Australia for supporting the event

IT and event support team at IP Australia

Associate Professor Paul Craft and Ms Amber Wilson from the Sarcoma MDT, The Canberra Hospital

The Minty family from Bricks and Smiles, The Zac Minty Legacy Project

Dr Mariana Sousa

Matt and Naomi‘s family, friends and colleagues, some travelling from interstate

Sarcoma Summit Sydney 2023

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2023 Sarcoma Summit

22 September

Kerry Packer Theatre RPA, Sydney. 

A day emblematic of hope for the future.

The virtual & in person audience comprised of those living with sarcoma, families, bereaved family & carers, clinicians, researchers, local & fed government, allied health professionals & everyone in between. The event provided a platform for each to be heard, & to share more about this insidious cancer.

The idea was that of CEO, Sydney Local Health District, Dr Teresa Anderson AM, and her stellar team led by Chief of Staff, Hannah Storey, & marked the first step forward in moving the dial for sarcoma  in NSW, & nationally.

The MC for the event was veteran media presenter & cancer advocate, Julie McCrossin OAM, whose execution was flawless.  Julie was entertaining & brought much needed humour to an otherwise very dark topic by her unpredictability, & the ability to think on her feet.  It was a tough job, & it was done to perfection.

An outstanding line-up of presenters covered an immense body of topics & gave inspiring & highly informative presentations.

However, it was those who live the devastation of sarcoma who ultimately made the greatest impact.  It is an unspeakably tough job to relive that passage of life irreversibly changed by sarcoma, however these brave, articulate individuals provided raw & honest accounts of their individual experiences.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the attendees, many of whom travelled significant distances to be there, & many of whom are at differing stages in the sarcoma timeline.

Clinicians/researchers/allied health professionals took time out of their schedules to support the event & to come together with other members of this small, but powerful community.

Our infinite thanks goes to the panellists & speakers – Dr Teresa Anderson AM, Uncle Allen Madden, Julie McCrossin OAM, Drs Richard Boyle, Dan Franks, & Maurice Guzman, Neil Gibson, Rebecca Minty, Louise Hird, A/Profs Antoinette Anazodo OAM, Peter Grimison, & Wayne Nicholls, Emma Pechey, Neema Rajak, Kaela Graham-Bowman, Karen & Imogen Atkins, Mandy Basson, Emma Pechey, James Parr, A/Prof Rooshdiya Karim, Dr’s Emily Davidson, Isobelle Smith, & Aneesh Dave.

2023 Sarcoma Summit A4 Booklet Digital

Identification of sarcoma predisposition.

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Three weeks into 2023, the stellar team at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Omico and UNSW, led by Professor(s) Mandy Ballinger and David Thomas today released scientific findings on the identification of genes and pathways associated with sarcoma predisposition.

The study has identified several new important genes that can cause sarcoma, and the implications of this research are far reaching for those living with sarcoma and their families, allowing detection of the cancer earlier and the potential for improved survival for those diagnosed with this sinister cancer.

The study has found a gene carried by one in 14 individuals diagnosed with sarcoma, which explains why the cancer emerges. In addition, the research team identified a previously unrecognised genetic pathway specific to sarcomas.

Professor Ballinger said today “Further understanding of the heritable genetic drivers will eventually lead to better outcomes for families impacted by sarcoma.”

The research was made possible by the dedication and hard work of those involved, and the support of funding partners

To read more please press the link below:

Link to Article

The new MDT facility opens at RPA

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We were delighted to be invited to the opening of the new MDT facility at RPA for the Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma Unit.

Equipped with the latest technology to enhance patient care, the facility is dedicated to the memory of Dr Annabelle Mahar, a much loved, highly respected and world-renowned member of RPA’s Tissue Pathology Department.

Sarcoma is an insidious cancer, treatments are complex and it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the 15 to 24 year age group in Australia.(AIHW)

Equipping our brilliant sarcoma trained specialists with the space and technology to collaborate in weekly MDT meetings is a critical component of optimal patient care for those diagnosed with sarcoma.

Today marked an important step forward, and with it, tangible hope.

Dr Teresa Anderson delivered the opening words, acknowledging the work of Dr Annabelle Mahar, whose name the centre proudly bears, together with an outline of why this facility is needed.

Dr Stephen McNamara, devoted partner of Dr Annabelle Mahar’s heartfelt speech today resonated with all in the room. A plaque commemorating Annabelle’s immense contribution to pathology at RPA sits at the entrance to this facility.

After an illustrious career that saw him a pioneer in sarcoma surgery in Australia, Professor Paul Stalley has now passed the baton to incoming Chair of the NSW Bone and Soft Tissue Unit , Dr RIchard Boyle, who officially opened the facility with well chosen words expressing the significance of this facility.

We speak for all those touched by sarcoma in thanking Dr Teresa Anderson Chief Executive of the Sydney Local Health District, and NSW Health for this investment in the future of sarcoma in NSW.

Aus Genomic screening and clinical trials $185m

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An emotional yet uplifting morning at @garvaninstitute as @angustaylormp together with @greghuntmp (not present due to another commitment), announced a joint funding agreement of $185.4min for the ground-breaking vision of Professor David Thomas and the stellar team at @garvaninstitute to facilitate the Precision Oncology Screening Platform enabling Clinical Trials (PrOSPeCT).

It is difficult not to be emotional when you stop to consider the gravity and breadth of this programme, and what it will mean to those patients living with cancer in Australia, and in particular, rare cancers such as sarcomas.  Sarcoma patients live with the uncertainty of a ‘heterogenous’ cancer (prone to constant change), and genomic screening for genetic mutations, and the discovery of therapeutic matches (personalised therapeutics)  is a critical component of working toward a cure.

Speakers included the Garvan Institute’s Mara-Jean Tilley who managed to do the impossible by putting a very polished press conference together in less than 24 hours, the ever humble Professor David Thomas, The Honourable Angus Taylor MP, Minister for Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Mr Stuart Knight, General Manager Roche, Dr Tony Penna representing NSW Health, Andrew Hagger CEO, Minderoo, Richard Vines CEO of Rare Cancers Australia and Omico Chair, Paul Jeans.  Each of the speakers spoke with deep passion about the programme, and the inherent difference it would make to those who need it most.

Some of the many aims of this programme are to provide both paediatric and adult patients increased access to genomic screening, (an additional 20,000 patients), repurposed drugs and immunotherapies, to empower Australian clinical trials innovation and capacity building, and to drive pharmaceutical and biotech engagement, establishing Australia as a world leader in this space.

By expanding the current programme to accommodate 20,000 additional patients, will provide untold hope to those who will over the coming months and years, be diagnosed with cancer.

The NSW @nswhealth and Federal Government(s) @healthgovau @industrygovau are to be acknowledged and thanked for their support of this programme, @childrenscancerinstitute for their contribution to the very important paediatric and AYA component, together with
@roche and philanthropic partners @minderoofoundation @rarecancers

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