BRISBANE PROFESSOR CELEBRATED AT INTERNATIONAL BREAST CANCER CONFERENCE

One of Australia’s leading breast cancer conferences has recognised internationally respected Brisbane specialist breast cancer pathologist and researcher, Professor Sunil Lakhani, who has made an immense contribution to improving the lives of those diagnosed with the disease.

A quiet achiever in Queensland’s breast cancer community, Professor Lakhani provides vital clinical service to Breast Screen QLD, to surgeons and oncologists in public and private practice, and expert consultation to Queensland and interstate doctors. For over 25 years, he has worked with the World Health Organisation to set standards for breast cancer classification that are used worldwide.

Professor Lakhani was recruited from the UK in 2004 to establish the Molecular Breast Pathology Group at the University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research (now part of the Fraser Institute) at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, where he leads research aimed at advancing our understanding of breast cancer and improving outcomes in patients with metastatic disease.

The outgoing Chair of Breast Cancer Trials’ Board, some of Professor Lakhani’s significant contributions have been in defining the pathology of cancers that occur in patients with BRCA1/2 gene mutations, and consequently participating as study pathologist and steering committee member in the OlympiA Clinical trial for BRCA patients, which showed the benefit of treatment Olaparib in improving survival. This drug is now available on the PBS in Australia.

Throughout his career, he has also mentored many early-career clinicians and scientists, helping to shape the next generation of researchers driving future breakthroughs in breast cancer.

“The advances in molecular biology, imaging techniques and development of new therapeutics have fundamentally changed the outcomes of patients with breast cancer,” Professor Lakhani explains. “Breast Cancer Trials has been an active player in helping to develop the evidence to change practice through clinical trials research, including the landmark OlympiA trial.”

Breast Cancer Trials’ Annual Scientific Meeting is being held in Brisbane this week.  Over 400 leading scientists, international speakers and clinicians have converged to discuss the latest breakthroughs in clinical trials, treatment strategies, and collaborative efforts to improve outcomes for people affected by breast cancer.

“Sunil has made an extraordinary contribution to breast cancer research throughout his distinguished career,” said Karen Price, CEO of Breast Cancer Trials. “He has brought that same passion for scientific excellence, collaboration, and innovation to Breast Cancer Trials, helping to strengthen our organisation and advance our mission of improving outcomes for everyone affected by breast cancer. Sunil’s contribution has helped shape our organisation, and his legacy will continue to influence our work for many years to come.

“As Australia and New Zealand’s largest independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated solely to breast cancer clinical trials research, our Annual Scientific Meeting is the highlight of the calendar for the breast cancer research community, and we recognise Sunil’s achievements as part of this event.”

To learn more about the Annual Scientific Meeting speakers and program, click here.

Contact: BCT Media & PR Lead, Sara McGregor – 0424 591 241 or sara.mcgregor@bctrials.org.au

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