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Rethink and Pfizer Canada joint RFP

In 2021, Rethink Breast Cancer partnered with Pfizer Canada to launch a joint research program to fund pioneering research in metastatic breast cancer that has the potential to advance care and improve outcomes for people living with metastatic breast cancer. The areas of interest were determined by patients, for patients, through collaboration and input from Rethink’s MBC Advisory Board, and inspired by the James Lind Alliance‘s top 10 research priorities for MBC.

This collaboration brings patients’ voices and values to the process of supporting quality improvement initiatives to make a difference in the daily lives of people living with MBC. And this initiative has been made possible by the generous support of the Rethink community—especially MBC Allies—for our MBC Fund, by the passion and determination of our MBC Board, and by the openness of Pfizer Canada in collaborating to respond to the needs of those living with breast cancer.

July 26, 2021 — Rethink Breast Cancer and Pfizer Canada have committed to funding the following research proposals, with nearly $270,000 in research grants, for the implementation of innovative strategies aimed at measurably improving the quality of care of people living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC):

  • St Mary’s Research Centre (Quebec) — The systematic screening of patients’ symptoms and the challenges they face can serve as a tool to improve patients’ lives. The goal of this program is to implement an electronic patient-reported outcome symptom screening and management program for better tailored treatment and care of women with MBC.⁠⁠
  • Tom Baker Cancer Centre (Alberta) — This program will create & deliver an evidenced-based forum of MBC-related topics to patients living with and undergoing treatment for MBC by experts in the field of breast oncology. The goal of the program is to empower patients in the shared decision-making process related to their care.⁠⁠
  • BC Cancer Vancouver — This program will aim to improve the quality of care for older people living with MBC. A dedicated nurse navigator will work with patients, caregivers and health care professionals to match patients with resources that best meet their needs. The project will examine if this intervention improves the quality of life of elderly patients and their caregivers.⁠⁠

Grant recipients were determined by a joint review panel comprised of Pfizer Canada & Rethink representatives and members of Rethink’s Metastatic Advisory Board.⁠⁠

⁠⁠“The programs funded by these grants are so important for the MBC community and are an important component of our ongoing work,” says Nathalie Baudais, MBC thriver, cancer research advocate, and co-chair of Rethink’s Metastatic Advisory Board. “We know the value of engaging patients and their caregivers in their health and decision-making, and we look forward to seeing how this can be further encouraged and implemented.”