BCAC is thrilled that one of New Zealand’s foremost breast cancer researchers has been acknowledged in this year’s New Year’s Honours list.

Waikato-based surgeon, Associate Professor Dr Ian Campbell, has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for his services to breast cancer treatment and research.

BCAC chair, Libby Burgess, says Dr Campbell is renowned for his dedication to ensuring the very best outcomes for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

“Dr Campbell is a dedicated, intelligent and high-achieving surgeon, researcher and breast cancer clinician. He is much loved and respected by patients and colleagues alike.

“The extra time and effort he gives in so many ways to New Zealanders with breast cancer demonstrates how much he cares for those affected by this disease.  We’re thrilled that his passion and commitment has been recognised,” Libby says.

Dr Campbell is a breast surgeon at the Waikato District Health Board, but in addition to this participates in numerous other breast cancer-related groups and activities.

These include:
•    working as an Associate Professor in Surgery at the University of Auckland School of Medicine
•    conducting research into breast cancer.  Of note are the clinical trials currently underway looking at the sentinel node-based management of lymph nodes in those with breast cancer
•    participating as the New Zealand director on the board of the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Group (ANZBCTG)
•    contributing to the Breast Special Interest Group associated with the New Zealand Association of Cancer Specialists
•    being a founding member and driving force of the Waikato Breast Cancer Research Trust

Libby says BCAC is particularly pleased that Dr Campbell has been recognised for his strong commitment to research and clinical trials designed to improve the care and treatment for those with breast cancer.

“Research is so crucial to ensuring that we see better management and treatment of breast cancer in the future .  Dr Campbell’s dedication to this particular area of medicine is inspirational and long may it continue.”