Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and metastatic breast cancer (MBC) accounts for approximately 5-10% of all breast cancer cases. MBC is a devastating diagnosis, as it means that the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, or bones. Unfortunately, MBC is not curable, and treatment options are limited. Therefore, there is a critical need for research and funding to improve the lives of those living with MBC.

Advocacy for research and funding is essential to improve outcomes for people living with MBC. Advocates work tirelessly to raise awareness of the disease and to encourage funding for research to find new treatments and therapies. This advocacy is necessary as MBC research receives less funding than other cancers. According to the Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, only 2% to 5% of breast cancer research funding goes toward MBC. This underfunding has led to a lack of understanding of the disease, limited treatment options, and ultimately, a lack of progress in finding a cure.

Advocacy groups have played a crucial role in raising awareness and educating the public about MBC. One such group is METAvivor, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research into MBC. Founded by a group of women with MBC, the organization’s mission is to “fund research that will lead to advances in treatment options, quality of life, and ultimately, a cure for metastatic breast cancer.” METAvivor works tirelessly to increase awareness about MBC and to advocate for more research funding.

Another organization that advocates for research and funding is the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Although the organization is well-known for its breast cancer awareness campaigns, it has also invested more than $1 billion in research since its inception. The foundation’s efforts have led to significant advances in breast cancer treatment, including the development of new drugs, therapies, and technologies.

In addition to advocacy groups, individuals can also play a role in advocating for research and funding. One way to do this is by contacting elected officials and urging them to support increased funding for MBC research. Writing letters or making phone calls to representatives can have a significant impact and help raise awareness about the need for more funding.

Another way to advocate for research and funding is by participating in clinical trials. Clinical trials are essential to developing new treatments and therapies for MBC. Unfortunately, many trials do not receive enough participants, which can slow down research progress. By participating in clinical trials, individuals can help move research forward and potentially benefit from new treatments.

In conclusion, advocacy for research and funding is crucial in the fight against MBC. Advocates play a critical role in raising awareness, educating the public, and pushing for more research funding. By working together, we can make a difference and improve outcomes for those living with MBC.