Data has played a central role in a recently completed research project predicting future needs of women diagnosed with breast cancer in South Australia.
Thanks to your support, this project, led by Professor David Roder from the University of South Australia, was proudly funded by Australian Breast Cancer Research.
Prof Roder analysed breast cancer trends in South Australia over an extended period, using maths and data, to ensure breast cancer patients have access to the right health services.
His work examined how demand for services is shifting due to population changes, case numbers, and trends in cancer stages, comorbidities, and treatments.
“This study emphasises the value of linked data in predicting future breast cancer trends and informs planning for clinical care and resource requirements,” Prof Roder said.
His research found a shift in profiles of women diagnosed with breast cancer treatments, as well as a change in treatment methods, with lumpectomies becoming more common than mastectomies and an increased use of targeted therapies including immunotherapies.
Prof Roder’s research is crucial for ensuring breast cancer patients have access to the health services they need in SA. His research has also directly influenced national policy.
“Learnings from the project have been used in policy deliberations at a national level and in major population centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane,” Prof Roder said.
They have also informed developments of the national cancer data framework for use Australia-wide.
Prof Roder’s findings highlight the need for proactive planning of clinical care services to meet the needs of women with breast cancer.
“Trends in these needs help inform population-wide effects of breast cancer and co-morbidities on clinical service needs,” Prof Roder said.
“We need to ensure patients can access the best treatments and have better outcomes that will save lives.”
