DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Susan G. Komen and two prestigious foundations today announced a collaboration aimed at finding new approaches to diagnosing and treating inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). Komen, the Milburn Foundation and the IBC Research Foundation are seeking applications that will explore new ideas and novel approaches to combating IBC – a rare but particularly aggressive form of breast cancer that is difficult to diagnose and treat.
“Investing in breakthrough research for aggressive forms of breast cancer like IBC is critical to achieving Komen’s Bold Goal of reducing the current number of breast cancer deaths in the U.S. by 50 percent in the next decade,” said Komen President and CEO Dr. Judy Salerno. “Support from the Milburn Foundation and IBC Research Foundation will expand our knowledge of this deadly form of breast cancer and save lives.”
IBC is often difficult to diagnose because it frequently does not present as a lump. Instead, women notice symptoms such as redness and swelling or enlargement of the breast that are often mistaken as an infection, delaying diagnosis. By the time IBC is diagnosed, it is often at an advanced stage (i.e., stage III or stage IV).
“Additional IBC research is needed to improve diagnosis of this unique subtype of breast cancer and understand how biology drives its progression, thereby leading to improved prognosis and more-effective treatment for those with IBC,” Salerno added.
"It's been a challenge to bring adequate research attention to inflammatory breast cancer,” said Ginny Mason, IBC Survivor and Executive Director of IBC Research Foundation. "Collaboration is essential for patient-focused success in both the research and nonprofit communities. We're excited to be a part of this multiorganization initiative that provides a platform for creative collaborations and encourages submissions across disciplines."
President and Chief Investment Officer of the Milburn Foundation Bryon Davis shared his thoughts on the genesis of collaboration among the three organizations.
“The Milburn Foundation is very pleased to have provided a valuable voice in structuring this multiparty collaboration,” Davis said. “By providing funding support and fostering relationships we helped to facilitate a new alliance that will support research innovation. We are exceptionally proud of what this initiative represents and are honored to partner with two organizations that demonstrate such a sincere commitment to the breast cancer cause.”
The Request for Applications for the two grants, each for $60,000, is now open on komen.org. Applications will be accepted through November 28. Read more about Komen’s research programs.
About Susan G. Komen®
Susan G. Komen is the world’s largest breast cancer organization outside of the federal government, funding more breast cancer research than any other nonprofit while providing real-time help to those facing the disease. Since its founding in 1982, Komen has funded more than $920 million in research and provided more than $2 billion in funding to screening, education, treatment and psychosocial support programs. Komen has worked in more than 60 countries worldwide. Komen was founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at ww5.komen.org/social.
About The Milburn Foundation
The Milburn Foundation is a catalyst for building momentum behind critical breast cancer research and is also the proud recipient of the 2016 Susan G. Komen Reach Award for fundraising innovation (see March Madness in the Breast Cancer Arena). We have an established history of high dollar donations to both Susan G. Komen and the IBC Research Foundation. We partner with companies and non-profits to increase their impact through matching gift and creative programs. As a private foundation we are poised to play a unique role in structuring partnerships and fund raising programs. Find out more by visiting TheMilburnFoundation.org.
About IBC Research Foundation
Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation was formed in 1999 with the goal of facilitating research and educating both the lay and medical communities about IBC. As a web-based, focused non-profit, IBC Research Foundation has funded significant, quality IBC research projects under the guidance of a stellar Medical Advisory Board. IBC educational information can be found on the Foundation website and through the monthly newsletter. Survivor volunteers provide individual support by phone and email. The IBC Research Foundation strives to improve the lives of those touched by IBC through research, creatively educating stakeholders of all kinds, and tirelessly advocating for both current IBC patients and survivors. To learn more visit: www.ibcresearch.org or call 1-877-stop-ibc. Find us on Facebook and Twitter (@IBCResearch).
