Horsham Doctor Advocates for Increased Research on Lobular Breast Cancer

In a poignant demonstration of advocacy, Dr. Susan Michaelis, a Horsham resident and breast cancer survivor, led a silent vigil outside Downing Street on October 10, 2023, to draw attention to the critical lack of research on lobular breast cancer. Diagnosed with this rare form of cancer in 2013, Dr. Michaelis expressed her deep frustration regarding the insufficient focus on lobular breast cancer, which constitutes approximately 15% of all breast cancer cases but is frequently overlooked in research and treatment protocols.
The vigil, which featured 22 participants representing the daily diagnoses of lobular breast cancer, served as a platform for raising awareness. "The amount of research into treatments for lobular breast cancer is very upsetting," Dr. Michaelis stated, emphasizing that the atypical presentation of lobular breast cancer—often not forming a palpable lump—leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has agreed to meet with Dr. Michaelis, highlighting the growing political support for her cause. According to a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care, the government is committed to tackling breast cancer comprehensively. They noted, "Our reforms to cancer care will see more than 100,000 people getting diagnosed faster, with thousands more starting treatment within two months."
Despite these commitments, Dr. Michaelis argues that the existing treatment protocols for lobular breast cancer are inadequate, as they often resemble those for more common types of breast cancer, which may contribute to poorer clinical outcomes. Her cancer has progressed to an incurable stage, having metastasized to her spine and pelvis by 2021. "We are calling for research to get better outcomes because it doesn't have that at the moment," she remarked.
The Lobular Moon Shot Project, which Dr. Michaelis founded to advocate for more research funding, has garnered support from 365 Members of Parliament, including Horsham MP John Milne, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, and former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt. Milne commented, "This is really important. This has had massive cross-party support, and I am sure the government is getting the message."
Dr. Michaelis's campaign and the associated documentary premiered following the vigil, aiming to further educate the public on the unique challenges faced by lobular breast cancer patients. According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Cancer Research, lobular breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage due to its subtle presentation, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted research and awareness initiatives.
In summary, the efforts of Dr. Michaelis and her supporters highlight a significant gap in breast cancer research, calling for immediate governmental and institutional action to improve outcomes for patients diagnosed with lobular breast cancer. The implications of their advocacy extend beyond individual cases, potentially influencing national health policies and research funding priorities in the fight against this often-neglected disease.
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