Professor Lynda Wyld, Consultant Breast Surgeon, was awarded the title of Professor in recognition of the research she has undertaken around breast cancer and for teaching and training in cancer surgery in the UK and Europe.
Speaking about her new role, Professor Wyld said: “Working in breast cancer research is very exciting at the moment as progress is so rapid and we can now see the prospect of a cure for 80% of women with the disease. It is humbling for researchers when women, facing the trauma of a cancer diagnosis, agree to take part in research studies to help others in the future. Their generosity and commitment at such a time is simply amazing.
“The University of Sheffield and DBTH have been working to develop closer collaboration and my appointment has been part of this for which I am immensely grateful. I would like to thank the Trust for their continued support and encouragement. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experiences with health colleagues, ultimately making further strides in the treatment of breast cancer.”
The most common of its kind in the UK, breast cancer affects around 55,000 women per year, however due to research, and subsequent treatment advances, mortality from this illness has begun to steadily fall. Playing a significant role in this improvement, Professor Wyld is leading a major UK-wide study at DBTH into the treatment of older women with the disease.
Called the ‘Age Gap Study’, the project is working with over 3,500 patients across the country and, as the name suggests, looks to reduce the difference in the outcomes of breast cancer treatment which is often seen between older and younger women.
As a major focus of the study, Professor Wyld and her team are developing a predictive tool which will help to tailor treatment options for elderly patients, taking into account factors such as fitness and frailty. At the same time, a Decision Support Instrument (DESI) is also being created to aid and assist women to make informed decisions about their preferred treatment.
In January 2017, the Trust was awarded Teaching Hospital status in recognition of the organisation’s long-standing commitment to improving education and growing research opportunities.
Dame Pamela Shaw, Vice President and Head of the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health at the University of Sheffield said: “Lynda’s commitment to her pioneering research and the dedication to improving patient care is outstanding. She has been instrumental in developing a unique tool which will help to tailor treatment options for elderly patients – something which is increasingly important for our ageing population. We hope that as Professor of Cancer Surgery Lynda’s tireless hardwork continues to be recognised.”