Defining Cancer Alliance: 2025

Written b:y Cheri Ambrose for the Integrative Cancer Resource Society

"You can’t build a movement alone—you build it one relationship, one conversation, one act of courage at a time."

When I launched my journey into cancer advocacy 15 years ago, I could never have imagined where it would lead. What began as a mission to give voice to the underserved has become a global calling—to unite survivors, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and visionaries in a fight far greater than any of us could wage alone. This is the essence of alliance building.

It’s not about titles or accolades—it’s about connecting human beings across borders, disciplines, and differences to create solutions that save lives.

The Heart of an Alliance

Alliance building, at its core, is about trust. It’s about reaching out to a stranger on LinkedIn and discovering a shared passion. It’s about sitting in hotel conference rooms until midnight hammering out survivor support strategies. It’s about leaning into hard conversations and finding common ground where none seemed possible.

Social media has been my bridge to the world. Platforms like LinkedIn have helped me discover allies on every continent—doctors in Portugal, advocates in Australia, survivors in Africa—each bringing their unique brilliance to the cause. Through these virtual handshakes, we’ve sparked joint webinars, co-authored white papers, and built survivor networks that transcend oceans.

"The beauty of an alliance is that it grows stronger with every voice added."

This synergy isn’t theoretical. It’s tangible. A single introduction can lead to a global awareness campaign. A single Zoom call can turn into a transcontinental research initiative.

Milestones and Moments

This year has been a testament to what alliances can accomplish.

In March 2025, I was humbled to receive the Heart of Advocacy Award from the National Consortium of Breast Centers at their annual conference in Las Vegas. As I stood before hundreds of breast health professionals, I realized this honor wasn’t just mine—it belonged to every survivor who shared their story, every clinician who said “yes” to collaboration, and every advocate who refuses to give up.

We’re keeping the momentum going with events that matter:

• October 6: Our 3rd Annual All Boobs Matter event with Mike Landesberg on Long Island continues breaking stigma and sparking conversations about male and female breast cancer alike.

• September 17–19: The American Cancer Society Round Table in Washington brought together policymakers and medical leaders to reimagine patient care pathways.

• November 6–8: I’ll join colleagues at the ABC8 Advanced Breast Cancer Global Alliance Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, where international dialogue drives local action.

• December 10–12: The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, the largest in the U.S. with 30,000 participants, is where science and advocacy meet at scale.

One event especially close to my heart was produced by my friend Vicki Durston of the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative and Breast Cancer Network Australia. Seeing Dr. Clifford Hudis, CEO of ASCO, in attendance reminded me that when giants gather, ripples turn into waves. At the “Showcasing BCNA’s Consumer-Led Advocacy for Visibility of Metastatic Breast Cancer” event in New York City, hosted by the American Australian Association, Vicki Durston, Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services at Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), reflected on the power of international collaboration. The gathering united Australian and New York advocates to amplify breast cancer awareness and share innovative approaches to patient support.

Durston emphasized the importance of empowering individuals through BCNA’s training programs, which have equipped consumer representatives to share their stories and drive change. “This event exemplified how our collective passion can drive impactful actions that resonate globally, ensuring every voice is heard and every experience valued,” she said. Partnering with leaders from ASCO, Metavivor, Touch, and the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance underscored the shared commitment to improving the lives of those affected by metastatic breast cancer worldwide.

"Alliances are born in small rooms, on late-night calls, and in shared visions for something better."

 

My Medical Advisory Board: Proof of What’s Possible

No alliance can succeed without experts willing to lean in. I am deeply proud of the MBC Global Alliance Medical Advisory Board—a dream team of brilliant minds and compassionate hearts:

• Dr. Robert Bard, a diagnostic imaging pioneer whose work with ultrasound has advanced early detection for male breast cancer.

• Dr. Fatima Cardoso, a champion for metastatic breast cancer patients worldwide.

• Dr. Oliver Bogler, who inspires with his unique perspective as both a researcher and male breast cancer survivor.

• Dr. Ben Ho Park, whose precision oncology work is rewriting what personalized medicine means.

• Dr. Pablo Leone, whose leadership in clinical trials like ETHAN reflects our shared commitment to gender-inclusive cancer research.

Together, they represent the strength of multidisciplinary collaboration—the very soul of alliance building.

THE GIFT OF GET-TOGETHERS  In today’s era of Zoom fatigue and digital-only dialogues, nothing rivals the substance of in-person gatherings. Conferences like the ABC Global Alliance’s Advanced Breast Cancer Seventh International Consensus Conference (ABC7), held November 9‑11, 2023, in Lisbon, serve as powerful proof. With over 1,200 participants from nearly 90 countries—clinicians, researchers, advocates, nurses, patients, industry representatives, and policymakers—ABC7 was a melting pot of perspectives and expertise.  Key themes included the latest in endocrine resistance, anti-HER2 therapies for brain metastases, and equitable clinical trial practices. The “Inclusion by Design” poster series and workshop convened stakeholders to discuss improving diversity in trials through 16 actionable recommendations . But the true value was in the hallway conversations and table‑side insights. Over coffee and sit-downs, a researcher exploring endocrine resistance formed a partnership with an advocate passionate about patient education. A clinician from South America connected with a nursing leader from Australia to co-develop support tools. These spontaneous moments often sparked collaborative research proposals and advocacy campaigns across borders. As Cheri Ambrose of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance observed, “These gatherings are where we see the true magic of alliance‑building—where every story shared and every handshake exchanged strengthens our global fight against cancer.”  Physical get‑togethers like ABC7 aren’t just events—they’re the crucibles of meaningful alliances, the starting point for innovation, empathy, and action that transform global care.

Why Alliances Matter

Cancer doesn’t discriminate, and neither can we. As advocates, we must build bridges between silos—bridges between survivors and scientists, between policy and practice, between local communities and global networks.

We need alliances to:
✔ Advance gender-inclusive cancer research.
✔ Build survivor networks across continents.
✔ Push for legislation that ensures equitable screening and treatment.
✔ Educate clinicians about rare and underserved cancer populations.

"Alliance building is action. It’s not a meeting or a mission statement—it’s the work of bringing people together to rewrite the future."

A Call to Action

To every survivor, clinician, policymaker, and advocate reading this: we need you. Your voice, your ideas, your willingness to collaborate. This isn’t just about male breast cancer. It’s about transforming cancer care for everyone.

If you’ve ever felt like one person can’t make a difference, let me assure you: you can. Because alliances are built one relationship at a time.

And when we come together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

About the Author

Cheri Ambrose is the founder and president of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance, an international advocacy network dedicated to raising awareness, improving research, and supporting survivors of male breast cancer. With over 15 years of experience in patient advocacy, Cheri has become a recognized leader in forging partnerships between survivors, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers. She is the recipient of the 2025 Heart of Advocacy Award from the National Consortium of Breast Centers and continues to champion global efforts for gender-inclusive cancer care.

Bridging Gaps in Breast Cancer Research

Dr. Jose Pablo Leone’s Vision for Clinical Trials in Male Breast Cancer

At the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Jose Pablo Leone is championing a critical shift in oncology: building clinical trials that aim to improve outcomes for men with breast cancer. Speaking passionately about his ongoing research, Leone articulates a bold vision for trials that address historical gaps in representation. “We’re working hard to design trials that aim to improve outcomes for men with breast cancer” said Dr. Leone.

His work underscores a growing recognition that clinical research in men with breast cancer is not optional—it is essential.

Redefining Clinical Trials for Real-World Impact

Dr. Leone began by acknowledging a long-standing challenge in cancer research: clinical trials often fail to represent the full spectrum of patients affected by disease.

“One of the biggest problems in our field is that the evidence we generate doesn’t always apply to everyone,” he explained. “We tend to focus on the majority populations, but we need to think about how our therapies work across all patient groups—including those with rare cancers.”

His current trial, spearheaded at Dana-Farber, seeks to address this imbalance by focusing on men with new diagnosis of breast cancer.

“Our goal is to collect data that helps us understand what are the best endocrine therapy options for men with breast cancer” said Leone. “We cannot make meaningful advances for all patients unless we generate data that reflects all patients.”

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Focusing on Male Breast Cancer: A Rare But Urgent Priority

Leone also acknowledged the psychological and cultural challenges male patients face. “Many men don’t even realize they can get breast cancer, and when they do, they often feel isolated. Our trial offers them not only access to cutting-edge treatment but also a chance to be represented in the science.”

To be continued

Click to enlarge RETHINKING MALE BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSTICS By: Robert Bard, MD While mammography remains a conventional screening tool, it is rarely used in men unless they present with symptoms such as breast enlargement, nipple discharge, or palpable masses—particularly in those with a BRCA gene mutation. More often, practitioners now rely on ultrasound as the primary imaging modality for male breast evaluation. This includes the use of advanced Doppler to assess vascular activity, which can help distinguish benign growths from malignancies. Common benign findings such as gynecomastia—especially in adolescent and young adult males—are readily identified with ultrasound. Fatty tumors like lipomas also appear clearly using this modality. However, the diagnostic power of ultrasound becomes critical when suspicious symptoms present, such as subareolar masses, nipple retraction, or bloody discharge. In such cases, ultrasound can quickly detect the presence, size, and structure of the tumor and guide further intervention.  (See complete report)

(Continued)

Designing for Accessibility and Representation

Dr. Leone stressed that good participation requires more than just opening enrollment. His team has implemented proactive measures to engage patients who might otherwise be excluded due to geography, disease characteristics, or comorbidities. “We’ve partnered with community clinics and advocacy organizations to reach patients where they are,” he explained.

This patient-centered design reflects Leone’s broader philosophy: clinical trials must adapt to patient needs, not the other way around.

Innovations in Trial Design and Data Collection

In addition to expanding access, Dr. Leone’s trial incorporates innovative methodologies to improve the quality and relevance of its findings. This includes the use of patient-reported outcomes, which can offer nuanced insights into how treatments impact patients’ lives daily.

“By capturing patient experiences directly, we’re getting a richer picture of efficacy and tolerability,” Leone explained. “We need to know not just whether a drug works, but how it impacts quality of life—something especially important for male patients who may have different psychosocial dynamics.”

Leone’s trial also leverages advanced imaging and biomarker analysis to explore potential differences in tumor biology between men and women. “We’re still learning about how male breast cancer may behave differently,” he said. “Our goal is to use every tool available to uncover those differences and translate them into better care.”

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A Call for Cultural Change in Research

Courtesy of: Gary Elroy/ MBC survivor

Dr. Leone concluded his remarks with a call to action for the research community. “We need a cultural shift in how we think about clinical trials,” he urged. “Representation isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the foundation for scientific rigor and ethical responsibility.” Leone said. “We owe it to our patients to ensure that every group sees themselves reflected in the science that guides their care.”

Conclusion: Building a New Standard of Care

Dr. Jose Pablo Leone’s clinical trial is more than an academic endeavor; it is a blueprint for a future in cancer research. By deliberately addressing gaps in representation and accessibility, Leone is setting a precedent for trials that better serve all patients—male and female, common and rare diagnoses alike.

At Dana-Farber, this work underscores a broader mission to make cutting-edge therapies accessible to every person facing a cancer diagnosis. As Leone’s trial progresses, it promises not only to generate vital data for male breast cancer but also to inspire a new paradigm where no patient is left out of the pursuit for cures.

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AFTERMATH

“A Wake-Up Call for Gender-Specific Cancer Care” By Robert L. Bard, MD – Chair of Clinical Diagnostics, MBCGA

As a diagnostic imaging specialist, I have spent decades studying the pathways of cancer—how it develops, how it spreads, and most importantly, how it responds to treatment across diverse patient populations. This work has exposed a critical flaw in our system: despite clear biological differences, men and women are too often treated as interchangeable in cancer care.

What Dr. Jose Pablo Leone is accomplishing with the ETHAN trial is groundbreaking because it directly challenges this outdated paradigm. For decades, endocrine therapies were designed and tested almost exclusively in women, then applied to male breast cancer patients with minimal data. This has led to unpredictable outcomes and, in many cases, severe and unnecessary toxicities.

In my role with the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance, I’ve met countless male patients who suffer debilitating side effects from therapies never optimized for their physiology. Men metabolize drugs differently, and their hormonal environment—characterized by higher androgen levels—alters both efficacy and tolerability. For example, aromatase inhibitors in men without gonadal suppression may fail to achieve sufficient estrogen blockade, while tamoxifen often produces more profound sexual dysfunction and thrombotic risks. These are not minor variations; they are fundamental biological differences that demand tailored solutions.

The ETHAN trial embraces this challenge by investigating endocrine strategies specifically in male breast cancer, including the use of gonadal suppression and CDK4/6 inhibitors. It gives us a chance to understand not only which treatments control tumors but which minimize collateral damage to quality of life—a factor too often sidelined in oncology.

It’s time for a cultural and scientific shift. Gender-specific research must become the standard, not the exception. ETHAN stands as a model of how we can advance precision medicine and equity simultaneously. It reminds us that treating men based on female-centric data is no longer acceptable in a field striving for excellence. We owe every patient—not just the majority—the dignity of evidence-based care.

For more information about the MALE BREAST CANCER GLOBAL ALLIANCE PREDISPOSITION TESTING PROGRAM, contact us at: www.mbcglobalalliance.org or contact our hotline at: 516.522-0777

“DROP THE BIAS” is the campaign and battle cry of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance—a bold call to end the harmful misconception that breast cancer is a “women-only” disease. This bias in medicine, media, and society creates dangerous blind spots in care, leaving men misdiagnosed, undertreated, or ignored. It limits access to screening, support, and survivor recognition. But bias also lives within—men often avoid seeking help out of fear, stigma, or shame. “DROP THE BIAS” confronts this cultural and clinical oversight head-on, urging the world to recognize that men get breast cancer too. The campaign is not just about awareness—it’s about action. By challenging outdated assumptions, educating providers, empowering survivors, and opening dialogue, the Alliance aims to rewrite the narrative and save lives. “DROP THE BIAS” is a mission, a movement, and a message to all: equity in cancer care starts with truth.

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THIS MESSAGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MALE BREAST CANCER GLOBAL ALLIANCE

The Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) is leading the charge in awareness, education, and support for men affected by this disease. This organization has built a worldwide network of survivors, advocates, researchers, and healthcare professionals working to shatter the stigma and silence surrounding male breast cancer. They’ve played a crucial role in pushing for more inclusive research, advancing public health messaging, and ensuring men have access to the resources they need. Through tireless advocacy and collaboration, MBCGA has helped get male breast cancer recognized in global cancer policy and has elevated the voices of countless survivors. Their data-driven campaigns and survivor-led storytelling have reached millions, and their partnership with Bard Diagnostics is all about scaling that impact through accessible genetic testing.

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RELATED RESOURCES

Under a dedicated partnership with the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance, BARDDIAGNOSTICS established key programs including: EARLIER DETECTION, PREDISPOSITION GENE TESTING, FIGHT RECURRENCE, ACTIVE SURVEILLANCE AND THE 2ND OPINION SCAN. For the many MEN who seek a significantly improved lifestyle or an upgrade in personalized healthcare, getting better answers about your state of health is paramount and IT ALL STARTS WITH STATE OF THE ART DIAGNOSTICS. The visionary paradigm that makes up true personalized medical care involves the integration between modalities, a collaboration between specialists and an upgrade in their strategic approach and you'll find it all at BardDiagnostics. 

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UNCOVERED – Shedding Light on Male Breast Cancer
The first official newsletter from the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance, launched in proud partnership with AngioMedical Media and the Integrative Cancer Resource Society. Rooted in the belief that education is power, UNCOVERED delivers essential news, scientific updates, and survivor stories to inform and inspire. Each issue is packed with the latest in male breast cancer research, treatment innovations, and advocacy efforts from around the globe. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or medical professional, UNCOVERED is your trusted source for facts and forward-thinking perspectives. Join us in uncovering the truth—and empowering lives through knowledge. (visit our regularly updated Newsletter)

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The INTEGRATIVE CANCER RESOURCE SOCIETY is a self-funded (Linkedin Based) independent volunteer group of non-profit foundations/charities, researchers, educators, community leaders and survivors. Under the spirit of collaboration and partnership, we are joined to bring a new level of support to cancer patients, survivors and all those seeking current information about cancer care. We form a unique network of support for one another- while driven to help those who need additional resources, technical updates or empowerment on the road to recovery. ICRS uses the power of the "interweb" to reach a global audience and a network of resources beyond our local borders. We have engaged some of the most impressive minds, perspectives and resources and enjoyed the exchange of vital information that is useful to all. Thanks in part to digital collaboration, these "foreign" connections have always been a part of our cancer crusade, now joining us in what we call "BORDERLESS MEDICINE".

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In great support of a the global movement of NON-INVASIVE medicine, we proudly introduce the INTEGRATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER by AngioInnovation Research (501c3). This New York city-based diagnostic imaging validation lab is established to clinically identify the efficacy, performance and supportive claims set by non-invasive therapeutics and diagnostic solutions. Co-founded by Dr. Robert L. Bard, the IHRC offers a non-profit, non-commercialized testing option for health-related innovations who seek an independent and impartial reporting through single-case pilot studies or IRB-Based clinical trials. The IHRC employs credentialed medical professionals and specialists in clinical research whose experience contributes to the unique strategic approach of each test study. (Visit: the AngioInstitute website)

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Expanding Access to Early Cancer Detection (Part 2 of Legislative Proposal)

A Vision for Ultrasound for Primary Screening
From the transcript of Dr. Lennard Goetze

7/3/2025- In the evolving landscape of cancer diagnostics, advocates are calling for a paradigm shift—one that recognizes the power of ultrasound technology as a frontline tool for early detection. At the forefront of this movement are leaders who believe this initiative can transform how cancer, particularly male breast cancer, is identified and treated. Their proposed legislative strategy aims to bring this cost-effective, accurate, and widely accessible technology into communities where traditional mammography often falls short.

Ultrasound has long been associated with prenatal imaging, yet its versatility extends far beyond obstetrics. Advocates argue that its affordability, portability, and clinical accuracy make it an ideal candidate for primary cancer screening. “It’s not just about male breast cancer,” one advocate stated. “It’s about leveraging ultrasound’s potential for a broad spectrum of cancers—male and female—especially in populations historically underserved by current screening programs.”

IN PURSUIT OF LEGISLATIVE CHANGE
The case for ultrasound is grounded in both clinical and social imperatives. Mammography, the current standard for breast cancer screening, is often ill-suited for men due to anatomical differences. Furthermore, the cost and logistical challenges of mammography can create barriers to access, particularly for individuals without robust insurance coverage or those living in rural areas. In contrast, ultrasound technology—especially the newer point-of-care devices—can be deployed in mobile units or even delivered directly to homes, enabling a “screening anywhere” model.

This vision is not purely theoretical. Across several states, similar initiatives have gained traction. A recent legislative effort in Pennsylvania, for example, sought to broaden screening language to include all individuals rather than limiting mammography to women, thereby acknowledging the overlooked prevalence of male breast cancer. The initiative in Pennsylvania signals a growing recognition of the need to eliminate gender bias in cancer care. By adopting similar language in their proposed legislation, advocates aim to create a more inclusive approach to cancer detection nationwide.

The proposal also tackles a deeper issue: education. Too often, male breast cancer is dismissed as rare, leading to late diagnoses and poorer outcomes. As one advocate explained, “There is a dangerous misconception that breast cancer only affects women. Yet we’ve documented cases in men (as young as 18), and in professions like firefighting, exposure to toxins has created additional risk factors.” This lack of awareness is compounded by what some describe as a blind spot in medical training, where physicians are not adequately educated about male breast cancer. Changing this narrative requires a multipronged effort: legislation, community outreach, and professional education.

- to be continued

MBCGA's FIRST NATIONAL TOUCHDOWN WITH LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS Through strategic, state‑by‑state advocacy, the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA), under the relentless leadership of CEO and Founder Cheri Ambrose, secured formal proclamations across numerous U.S. states—each one designating a specific calendar week as Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Ambrose personally reached out to governors’ chiefs of staff, championing the critical recognition that men, too, can develop breast cancer. These efforts ignited media coverage, legislative support, and public consciousness at the grassroots level. In 2012, proclamations were made in four states—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Massachusetts—as reported by Patch during the first formal recognition efforts when Governor Christie declared the first New Jersey awareness week.  A decade later, by October 2021, Cheri Ambrose noted that youth and survivor awareness efforts had expanded to include 45 states officially observing Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week. The range spans from 4 states in 2012, to 45 states by 2021, each acknowledging Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week through state proclamations championed by Cheri Ambrose and the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance. Bolstered by this cascade of state successes, the campaign gained national momentum. Building on an existing tradition—where male breast cancer groups worldwide had observed the third week of October as Awareness Week since 2009 —Ambrose aimed even higher: to achieve recognition at the highest level of government. Her dedication culminated in a White House memorandum, officially declaring a national Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Though exact timing is not clearly documented, sources indicate that President Biden endorsed the memorandum—recognizing the Alliance’s sustained state‑by‑state momentum and the urgent need for broader awareness for this overlooked disease. This milestone not only validates the Alliance’s mission but also marks a critical step forward—uniting states and the nation in recognizing male breast cancer. Cheri Ambrose’s visionary leadership continues to amplify the message: men can get breast cancer, and awareness saves lives.

The Beginning of a Ruling Trend
The legislation under discussion does not prescribe a rigid age threshold for screening, as many existing guidelines do for women. Instead, it promotes a more nuanced approach that considers genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, and individual risk factors. “The myth that cancer doesn’t strike before age 40 is simply not supported by reality,” one leader emphasized. “We have to break away from arbitrary age limits and recognize the complexity of risk.”

Moreover, the strategy acknowledges the disproportionate impact of breast cancer on men of color and other underserved groups. Data cited by advocates reveal a 52% higher incidence of male breast cancer in men of color and similarly elevated risks in Hispanic and Latino populations. Compounding these disparities is a 19% higher mortality rate for men, driven by delayed diagnoses and limited access to care.

To address these inequities, the proposal envisions mobile ultrasound units bringing screenings directly to at-risk communities. Collaborations with device manufacturers and transportation providers are already in motion, with commitments to donate portable ultrasound devices and vehicles. “It’s not enough to tell people to get screened,” advocates said. “We need to meet them where they are.”

This vision extends beyond detection. The goal is to foster a culture of vigilance and empowerment—both among patients and healthcare providers. By ensuring that clinicians are trained to recognize the signs of male breast cancer and equipped with accessible diagnostic tools, advocates believe they can transform patient outcomes.

The initiative also emphasizes fiscal responsibility. Ultrasound screenings cost a fraction of traditional mammography, offering potential savings for insurers while expanding access. “This just as much a medical issue as it is an economic one,” one proponent noted. “By catching cancers earlier and reducing the need for more invasive, expensive interventions later, we can save lives and reduce costs simultaneously.”

Underlying the legislative push is a profound human story: the decades-long advocacy of survivors and their allies. Their campaigns have already secured male breast cancer awareness weeks in numerous states and federally, and they hope to build on this momentum with ultrasound legislation.

The ultimate vision is a comprehensive network of awareness, education, and accessible screening. “It’s time to bring ultrasound out of the shadows of women’s health and into the spotlight as a universal tool for cancer detection,” one advocate concluded. “With the right legislation, we can create a system where no one is overlooked, no matter their gender, age, or socioeconomic status.”

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Sunday, June 15, 2025

2025 State Bill Proposal for Ultrasound Use for Male Breast Cancer

June 2025 – New York, NY — In a bold step toward medical equity, Dr. Lennard Goetze, national advocate for early detection and communications director of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) recently launched  a groundbreaking proposal for New York State Senators (and those from other states) that seek to improve cancer screening and prevention protocols.  These lawmakers are also anticipated to see the value of advanced ultrasound as the preferred diagnostic tool for male breast cancer. Backed by the MBCGA and renowned diagnostic expert and a leading cancer imaging radiologist Dr. Robert Bard, the bill underscores the urgent need to revise outdated imaging protocols that have long failed male patients.

“This is both a medical update and a public health imperative,” says Dr. Goetze. “For too long, men with breast cancer have been an afterthought in our screening policies. It's time we change the narrative and the tools we use to save lives.”

WHY ULTRASOUND?
While mammography remains the standard screening modality for women, its use in men has repeatedly shown technical shortcomings. Male anatomy lacks the dense breast tissue and contours that mammograms were designed to image. Instead, high-resolution ultrasound offers a non-invasive, anatomically accurate, and highly sensitive alternative for detecting subdermal tumors in male breast tissue.

According to Dr. Bard, “Ultrasound enables us to visualize abnormalities in the male breast with superior clarity. The male chest wall and flatter profile make mammograms less effective and, in many cases, inconclusive. This bill recognizes science—and common sense.”

Dr. Oliver Bogler: A Legacy of Leadership, Survivor Advocacy, and Transformational Cancer Training

Dr. Oliver Bogler’s career stands at the crossroads of groundbreaking science, national leadership, and lived experience. A respected cancer biologist, former National Cancer Institute (NCI) executive, and male breast cancer survivor, Dr. Bogler has made it his life’s mission to bridge research, policy, and advocacy in cancer care. With a recent departure from his directorial post at the NCI’s Center for Cancer Training, he leaves behind a legacy marked by bold innovation and deep human empathy—an embodiment of his dual identity as both scientist and survivor.

From Bench to Boardroom: A Global Journey

Dr. Bogler began his academic path at the University of Cambridge before moving into postdoctoral research at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and the Salk Institute. His focus on glioblastoma—a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer—positioned him as a sharp mind in molecular oncology. He later served on the faculties of Virginia Commonwealth University and Henry Ford Hospital, ultimately landing at MD Anderson Cancer Center where he rose to direct basic brain tumor research.

But it wasn’t long before he transitioned from lab research into academic leadership. As Vice President for Global Academic Programs at MD Anderson, and later as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Bogler shaped the future of medical training for cancer researchers worldwide. He was known for his systems-based thinking—an ability to build strategic alliances while cultivating the next generation of scientists.

This trajectory would lead him to the ECHO Institute at the University of New Mexico, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. There, he supported the expansion of tele-mentoring programs aimed at improving care for underserved populations—a prelude to his federal leadership appointment.

A Transformational Tenure at the National Cancer Institute

In 2020, just as the global pandemic reshaped the healthcare landscape, Dr. Bogler assumed the role of Director of the Center for Cancer Training at the NCI. His arrival at this critical juncture offered both challenges and opportunities. Charged with overseeing the pipeline of cancer researchers and workforce development, he took bold steps to modernize training programs and amplify support for early-career scientists.

Under his leadership, the NCI launched key initiatives aimed at strengthening the career journey for young investigators. He was instrumental in expanding funding mechanisms, introducing equity-focused frameworks, and promoting diversity across cancer disciplines. Notably, he helped develop and launch NanCI, an AI-powered app designed to connect trainees with NCI resources, mentorships, and peer communities. The tool was seen as a futuristic step in personalizing cancer training, leveraging artificial intelligence to bridge information gaps in real time.

Another of his legacies includes the Inside Cancer Careers podcast—a platform he helped conceive to give voice to diverse experiences within oncology research, from lab stories to lived trauma. The podcast became not only an educational resource but also a cultural touchstone, addressing the psychological and social dimensions of working in cancer care.

Despite these achievements, in mid-2025 Dr. Bogler announced that he would be stepping down from the NCI. In a candid farewell message shared through social media and picked up by OncoDaily, he wrote:

“It was a high point of my career. I joined because I wanted to make a difference for early-career cancer researchers… but I reached a point where I felt I could no longer have the impact I sought. My commitment to the community remains undimmed. I’m excited about the next chapter.”

His departure was received with both appreciation and curiosity—what would come next for someone whose career had already spanned academia, advocacy, and federal leadership?

Survivor and Advocate: A Unique Perspective on Male Breast Cancer

What distinguishes Dr. Bogler is the deeply personal lens through which he approaches cancer advocacy. Diagnosed with male breast cancer over a decade ago, he became a public voice for a rarely acknowledged patient population. His diagnosis was complicated by a startling coincidence: his wife, Dr. Irene Newsham, was already a five-year survivor of the same disease.

In his own words, shared during a Medscape panel, he recalled the moment of recognition: “It was particularly odd because my wife, at the time, was a breast cancer survivor. It took me some time to even think that the lump I felt might be the same disease.”

This experience profoundly shaped his professional advocacy. Dr. Bogler has served as a board member for the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA), lending his voice to calls for clinical inclusivity, awareness campaigns, and the dismantling of gender stigma in oncology. He has contributed to the ECOG-ACRIN male breast cancer registry, spoken at international summits, and pushed for protocol reform in clinical trials that historically excluded male patients.

His advocacy is both empathetic and systemic: he understands not just the emotional weight of a diagnosis, but the institutional blind spots that leave men with breast cancer underserved and misunderstood.

Pivoting To A New Way To Make A Difference

Dr. Bogler’s commitment to biomedicine and the people who do the research and treat the patients has led him in a new direction. Going forward he plans a portfolio of work. One part is to support scientists with consulting on funding proposals, an area where he has experience from all three angles - getting the grants that supported his own research lab for over a decade, reviewing grants for 25 different agencies, including chairing an NIH panel and awarding grants while he was part of the team at NCI that oversaw $210M in early career awards. But knowing how to do science and write a grant is not always enough, which is why Dr. Bogler is completing his training as a coach. He believes that supporting the whole scientist is critical - and given the many pressures on this sector at the moment, he wants to help - particularly early career investigators - you can see more about this work at www.bogler.cc. Dr. Bogler also shared that he is working with a very exciting non-profit startup that will soon announce, and is focused on nurturing scientific creativity and joy of discovery. Of course, he will also continue to speak, blog and share on social about male breast cancer.

A Voice That Resonates Beyond Titles

Dr. Oliver Bogler’s story is not one of linear ascension, but of thoughtful pivoting. From molecular biologist to executive strategist, from researcher to patient, and from institution-builder to reform advocate, he has embodied the roles needed by his field at critical times. As he now steps away from a national leadership post, he does so not with retreat, but with recalibration. He remains a voice of reason in a field too often caught between bureaucracy and burnout. He remains a champion for those early in their journeys, a mirror for men confronting unexpected diagnoses, and a builder of platforms that serve both intellect and heart. It is certain is that his influence will continue to ripple—through programs, policies, and people shaped by his enduring commitment to science, training, and advocacy.

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Uniting the Voices of Male Breast Cancer Survivors: Goetze, Bogler & Bard Strategize a Bold New Era in Advocacy

In a landmark virtual meeting, Lennard Goetze, Chief Communications Officer and Community Director of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA), joined forces with medical imaging pioneer Dr. Robert Bard and former NCI cancer training director Dr. Oliver Bogler to lay the groundwork for a new era in male breast cancer (MBC) advocacy. This roundtable wasn’t just 

a meeting—it was a call to action. With rare cancers like MBC often falling through the cracks of research, outreach, and early detection, Goetze is pushing forward with a 2025 strategy to shatter silence, sharpen data, and create a powerful network of medical allies.

Building a Bridge to Survivors and Physicians Alike

The central goal of this initiative is as straightforward as it is overdue: meet every doctor who has ever treated a male breast cancer survivor. “There’s no better way to grow our data than by expanding our circle,” said Goetze during the call. “Every doctor we reach opens a window to another survivor. And every survivor’s story brings us closer to understanding the true face—and prevalence—of this disease.”

Uniting voices like Dr. Bogler, a male breast cancer survivor and researcher himself, and Dr. Bard, a diagnostic imaging specialist known for early detection strategies, the meeting served as a rallying point for collaborative progress. Dr. Bogler’s insider knowledge of both scientific institutions and patient realities offers a rare dual perspective that Goetze believes can powerfully steer new protocols for education, detection, and patient engagement.

The Rare Cancer That Isn't So Rare?

Male breast cancer remains classified as a "rare" cancer, in part because so few men come forward or are properly diagnosed. Official statistics place male cases at about 1% of all breast cancers. But as Goetze emphasized, “That number doesn’t reflect what’s happening in real life—it reflects what we’ve counted so far.” Dr. Angela Mazza, a triple board-certified endocrinologist and MBCGA board member, knows this truth personally. Her own father was diagnosed with male breast cancer, yet kept his illness a secret for years. “If more men came forward, the actual prevalence might be closer to 4 or even 5%,” Goetze noted. “We can’t fix what we don’t face. And that starts by confronting the silence.”

Cheri Ambrose’s Vision 2.0

This entire strategy follows the mission of MBCGA’s founder, Cheri Ambrose, who has spent years breaking gender bias and building inclusive awareness around male breast cancer. “Cheri lit the torch,” said Goetze. “This year, we are enacting the next phase of our job to carry it forward with sharper tools and wider networks.”

The meeting reflects that mission. Rather than relying on abstract campaigns, Goetze is advocating for what he calls “micro-activism”—direct contact with physicians, survivors, and clinical researchers, one by one, until a national and global framework is built. “If every physician who treated one male survivor joined our cause, we’d have a support web capable of reshaping how this disease is studied and treated.”

A Bold 2025 Advocacy Blueprint

Goetze’s 2025 advocacy strategy is about more than awareness—it’s about precision. He envisions targeted collaborations with clinical imaging experts, data scientists, and survivor-led panels. Partnering with Dr. Bard brings early-detection solutions to the frontlines, while aligning with Dr. Bogler provides policy-level access and survivorship insight.

Upcoming initiatives include the development of a verified MBC survivor database, a national medical roundtable series, and co-branded educational programs with clinical partners. “We’re no longer whispering through pink ribbons,” Goetze said. “We’re speaking loudly through data, science, and survivor truth.”

Conclusion: From Isolation to Identification

This strategic meeting was more than a brainstorm—it was a formation of a new front line. With leaders like Goetze, Bard, and Bogler uniting around the table, the future of male breast cancer advocacy is no longer a hope—it’s a blueprint in motion. The rarity of MBC may one day be reclassified—not because the disease became more common, but because the community finally opened its eyes wide enough to see what was always there.

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Imaging a Future of Early Detection for Male Breast Cancer

Introduction:

In the growing crusade for equity and recognition in male breast cancer care, few figures have delivered as much technological leadership and clinical foresight as Dr. Robert L. Bard. As part of a powerful strategic roundtable with MBCGA’s Lennard Goetze and cancer research leader Dr. Oliver Bogler, Dr. Bard brought his decades of diagnostic expertise to the table—outlining a proactive path for non-invasive, early detection solutions tailored specifically for male patients.

Precision Imaging for an Overlooked Population

As a globally respected specialist in advanced cancer imaging, Dr. Bard has long sounded the alarm on the gender bias in breast cancer screening protocols. “We can detect tumors in men far earlier using high-frequency ultrasound, Doppler studies, and elastography,” Bard stated during the strategy meeting. “But first, we need to normalize the idea that men should get checked.”

Dr. Bard's mission is rooted in his clinical practice, where he has worked closely with male survivors and their surgeons to develop specialized imaging protocols. Unlike women, men with breast cancer often lack dense glandular tissue, making ultrasound especially effective in detecting small lesions, architectural distortions, and vascular abnormalities that may indicate malignancy.

A Call for National Screening Awareness

In collaboration with MBCGA, Dr. Bard has advocated for ultrasound to be formally recognized as a first-line screening tool for high-risk men and male survivors with suspicious symptoms. His work includes partnerships with insurance stakeholders and state legislators to build support for coverage parity and diagnostic reimbursement.  “We’re not just talking about awareness,” Bard emphasized. “We’re building the infrastructure to detect cancer earlier, when treatment outcomes are far better.”

Collaborative Innovation in Action

This meeting marks a significant milestone in what Dr. Bard describes as a “functional medical alliance”—uniting imaging, advocacy, and survivor experience to chart a more effective future. With Goetze mapping out national outreach and Dr. Bogler offering scientific insight from the survivor's seat, Bard anchors the initiative with tangible, diagnostic innovation.

Together, this triad is helping the MBCGA deliver on its promise: to rewrite the standard of care for male breast cancer—starting with early detection, visibility, and evidence-driven action.