9 The MBC Alliance Many patient advocate groups have been working to change the landscape of MBC. In 2012, representatives of breast cancer organizations joined with MBC patient advocates to discuss ways to change the persistent lack of understanding about MBC and how organizations could work together to provide better information and support services to people living with MBC. All agreed that more could be achieved through working together than could be achieved by working alone. Assistance for these early steps was provided by Celgene Corporation. On October 13, 2013 (National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day), the MBC Alliance of 16 nonprofits and 5 pharmaceutical corporations was launched. Over the past year, the Alliance has experienced growth in its membership as new advocates and industry partners realized the Alliance’s potential to create positive change and impact individual lives. Currently, there are 29 member organizations. Recognizing the valuable current and future contributions of each member to the MBC field, the Alliance is committed in its approach not to duplicate efforts of its members. Collaboration and learning from others is vital if the Alliance is to have real impact in improving the lives of people living with MBC. Landscape Analysis of MBC As its first initiative, the Alliance undertook a landscape analysis to assess gaps, duplication, and opportunities in MBC research, patient information and support services, and public awareness to capitalize on identified opportunities, and identify the ways Alliance members could work together to meet the unique needs of those living with MBC. Aspects of the MBC landscape examined by advocates and experts with knowledge and experience specific to the area of investigation were: 1. Scientific research, including clinical trials, focused on MBC 2. Quality of life of MBC patients and their families and caregivers 3. Information and support services provided by MBC Alliance members 4. Epidemiology of MBC: Challenges with population-based statistics 5. Public awareness of MBC. Areas of MBC investigation: Scientific Research Quality of Life Information and Support Services Epidemiology Challenges Public Awareness. 5