Eisai launches disease awareness campaign on advanced breast cancer

The campaign, entitled FurtherMore, follows a Europe-wide survey which uncovered the perspectives of MBC patients and oncologists treating MBC. The findings showed:

• 64% of MBC patients feel uncomfortable about asking their doctor about how long they have left to live
• 52% of oncologists feel that their patients are holding back, indicating that conversations may not be completely open
• 41% of oncologists say that their main concerns in consultations, other than availability of treatment options, is that patients seem vulnerable and anxious and they struggle to reassure them.

These survey findings were discussed with patient organisations across Europe which fed into a report titled MBC Radio Silence. The report highlights that many people with MBC feel isolated and in need of more support to deal with their diagnosis, and that there is an increasing need for healthcare professionals to manage both the physical and emotional aspects of this disease.

The MBC Radio Silence report calls for a greater focus on MBC as a disease that is distinct from early-stage breast cancer in that it can be controlled but not currently cured. It highlights a need for tailored information for patients, that is specific to MBC and a consistent multidisciplinary care team that is available from the point of diagnosis.

The FurtherMore campaign showcases the lives of women with advanced breast cancer through real and personal experiences, and celebrates what can be achieved when they live their lives to the fullest. The hope is that, through these powerful stories, advanced breast cancer will be recognised as a distinct disease separate from early-stage breast cancer, and all those affected will be empowered to go further in communicating their wishes on how to live out the remainder of their lives. You can find out more about the FurtherMore campaign and the MBC Radio Silence report at www.furthermore.life, which will go live on 21 November.