Breast Cancer Reasearcher Shuns Cruel and Outdated Animal Tests in Favor of Effective, Modern Research Methods

January 9, 2009

For Immediate Release:January 5, 2009

Contact:Kate Willett 757-622-7382

Santa Monica, Calif. -- For teaming up with cosmetics giant Avon to seek a cure for breast cancer without resorting to cruel and archaic animal experiments, Santa Monica-based Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation--named for the world-renowned breast surgeon who founded and runs it--has won the Most Innovative Health Charity category in PETA's sixth annual Proggy Awards. The Army of Women charity (founded by the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation and Avon ) focuses on developing a partnership between women and scientists. Dr. Love will receive a framed certificate and will be featured on PETA's award-winning Web site PETA.org. PETA's Proggy Awards ("Proggy" is for "progress") recognize animal-friendly achievements in commerce and culture.

Stating that "what we learn from animals doesn't always translate into how cancer develops in women," the Army of Women doesn't waste time, money, or lives on outdated and unreliable animal tests. Instead, the charity channels its funds into prevention, education, advocacy, and cutting-edge clinical research using human volunteers. This approach allows researchers "to conduct a wider array of studies and to solve the puzzle as to how breast cancer starts and how to stop it in women!"

"The Army of Women isn't just saving animals' lives by refusing to fund cruel animal experiments--it's using the very best tools available to save women's lives too," says PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk. "Anyone who wants to see a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime should support this forward-thinking program."

This year, Proggy Awards have gone to producers and marketers of vegan foods, leather-free shoes, and cruelty-free personal-care products; a fast-food franchise owner; and a member of Congress.

For more information and to read about the other Proggy winners, please visit PETA.org.