Breast cancer: an additional $5 million to be invested in Quebec research
projects

MONTREAL, Dec. 2 /CNW Telbec/ - Thanks to Quebecers' generosity and the many fundraising activities organized over the last two years, the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation is proud to announce a new strategic funding competition, through which it will invest up to $5 million in Quebec for breast cancer research. As in 2008, when $4 million was allocated to nine research teams, the Foundation will draw on the expertise of the Cancer Research Society to establish a rigorous and transparent selection process.

The objective of the Foundation's grant program is to finance world-class research projects conducted in Quebec universities and research institutes, with the ultimate aim of reducing the incidence of breast cancer and improving the quality of life of people living with the disease. Funding levels will be a maximum of $300,000 per year, per project, depending on the area of research. Quebec researchers who apply for the grants will be informed of the final funding decisions in October 2011.

"Research has led to considerable progress in reducing the incidence of breast cancer, as well as mortality rates. Early detection and access to new medications and treatments are tangible proof of these advances. Ten years ago, 82% of women survived five years with the disease, while today the five-year survival rate is 88%. It's a big win," said Nathalie Le Prohon, chair of the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation. "But there is still much work to do, and this new investment will allow us to continue the fight. We want to thank the public, our donors and our business partners for their generosity, which has helped make this new competition possible. We are very pleased to be able to give back to our community by funding projects that will help Quebec women. We know we will be receiving many high-quality proposals," she added.

It is with enthusiasm that this year, the Cancer Research Society (CRS) has accepted to renew its partnership with the Foundation. "Our contribution will ensure that the research grants will only be awarded to researchers presenting the most deserving and promising projects in breast cancer research in Quebec," states Mario Chevrette, President of the CRS Board of Directors. The Society's long-standing expertise in creating and administering scientific evaluation committees allows for a rigorous evaluation process each year of its funded cancer research projects across Canada.

Quebec researchers interested in applying should visit www.rubanrose.org or www.CancerResearchSociety.ca for more information about the process.

About the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation
The Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to fund breast cancer research, promote breast health education and awareness, and support people touched by breast cancer. Since its inception in 1994, the Foundation has awarded more than $16.5 million to Quebec's medical community, providing essential funding for research projects and support programs. Visit www.rubanrose.org for more information.

About the Cancer Research Society
Founded in 1945, the Cancer Research Society (CRS) is a national not-for-profit organization whose sole mission is to fund cancer research exclusively and to offer seed money to the most promising original ideas, projects and researchers across Canada. CRS helps improve the health of the Canadian population and helps the public better understand the causes of cancer and related issues. Over the past five years it has awarded more than $30 million in research funding to innovative projects across Canada. For more information, visit www.CancerResearchSociety.ca

For further information:

Anne-Sophie Hamel
Communication Advisor      
Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation 
Tel.: [phone], ext. 226
[email protected]