From the early days of a few labs and a handful of scientists, Breakthrough has grown into the largest and most influential UK breast cancer charity, investing close to £53 million in groundbreaking research since 1999. We support the work of over 250 top scientists dedicated to breast cancer research. Our impact is global and we are internationally esteemed for our work.
In that time, Breakthrough has invested £4.7m in our cutting edge programme of breast cancer research in Scotland. This has been possible because Breakthrough’s generous supporters have raised an enormous amount of money for Breakthrough over the last 10 years.
Being the Breakthrough in Scotland
Over the same ten year period the incidence of breast cancer in Scotland has increased by 8%, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the country. Each year in Scotland, there are over 4,000 new cases and over 1,000 people dying of the disease.
The Edinburgh Research Unit - the first and only dedicated breast cancer research unit in Scotland - exemplifies Breakthrough’s unique approach. We bring together a focus on breast cancer research and combine this with investment in world renowned scientists, encouraging and promoting interactions and collaborations with other research organisations, charity partners and pharmaceutical companies nationally and internationally. This means that we maximise our research efforts and that the pace and output from of our research is quick.
We also influence government at the highest levels, giving a voice to those affected by breast cancer across Scotland. Our Director in Scotland, Audrey Birt sits on the Scottish Cancer Taskforce and chairs the influential taskforce subgroup on living with cancer. Breakthrough also ensures the public receives the most up-to-date and accurate information about breast cancer. We are dedicated to saving lives through enabling and ensuring access to improvements in prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Through this rounded approach of research, campaigning and education, we address the needs of patients today, while working towards the ultimate eradication of breast cancer.
Clearly, our work is not done. But with your help we will achieve our goal – a future free from the fear of breast cancer.
