New app empowers metastatic breast cancer patients, while funding supports critical Canadian research
Breast Cancer Canada has announced several initiatives to advance breast cancer research and patient care, including the launch of the mBC Know More app and new funding for equity-focused research.
The mBC Know More app, developed under the leadership of Nancy Nixon at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre, supports Canadians living with metastatic breast cancer (mBC).
It features tools for medication and symptom tracking, health journey logging, peer and caregiver support, and patient-reported outcomes research.
“Managing metastatic breast cancer can feel overwhelming, but having a tool like the mBC Know More app helps patients take an active role in their care,” Nixon stated.
The app allows patients to track their health, improve communication with care teams, and feel more in control of their treatment journey.
Patient-centred development ensured the app meets the specific needs of individuals with mBC.
Connie Claeys, an mBC patient in Calgary, said the app empowers patients by providing a central tool for tracking symptoms and connecting with others.
In addition, Breast Cancer Canada, in partnership with AstraZeneca Canada, announced $200,000 in new funding for the Neo-Adjuvant Equity and Outcomes Research Matching Grants.
These grants focus on advancing equitable access to and outcomes from neo-adjuvant therapy (NACT) for early-stage breast cancer patients.
The funding supports two projects:
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Tulin Cil (Toronto, ON): Piloting a clinical care pathway for neoadjuvant chemotherapy referral.
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Stephen Chia (Vancouver, BC): Addressing disparities in systemic therapy use in non-urban areas of British Columbia.
These studies integrate patient-reported outcomes and represent diverse perspectives from surgical and medical oncology.
Breast Cancer Canada is also funding a research initiative led by Anna Wilkinson and Jean Seely at the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre to improve early detection methods.
This study will evaluate whether breast cancer is detected through patient-reported symptoms or routine mammograms, providing evidence for inclusive screening policies.
Breast Cancer Canada has announced an additional $250,000 in grants to support breast cancer research, screening, diagnostics, and targeted treatments.
CEO Kimberly Carson said the organization remains committed to driving impactful research to improve outcomes for Canadian patients.
