Centre of Research Excellence to Improve the QuALIty of SurVival in Gynaecological Cancer PatiEnts (ALIVE WELL)

feMMe

feMMe is exploring less invasive treatment options for endometrial cancer that may help some women preserve their fertility.

Traditionally, endometrial cancer is treated with a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and prevents future pregnancy. The feMMe trial investigated the use of a hormonal intrauterine device (Mirena) as a less invasive treatment option for selected women with endometrial cancer.

The study showed promising results, with many women responding well to treatment. Building on these findings, the feMMe Molecular study is investigating why some women respond better than others. Researchers are analysing blood and tissue samples to identify markers that may predict treatment success.

Ultimately, this research aims to support more personalised treatment decisions and expand fertility-preserving options for women with endometrial cancer.

SATELLITE

SATELLITE is exploring whether immunotherapy can reduce the need for surgery in women with early-stage endometrial cancer.

The SATELLITE study is evaluating dostarlimab, an immunotherapy treatment that may provide a safe and effective alternative to surgery for selected women. By investigating less invasive treatment approaches, SATELLITE aims to broaden treatment options and support more personalised care.

If the treatment proves successful, it could offer more women access to effective, uterus-preserving treatment for early-stage endometrial cancer.

RESTORE-FERT

RESTORE-FERT is exploring ways to improve fertility outcomes for women who have completed fertility-preserving treatment for endometrial cancer.

While treatments such as those investigated in the feMMe trial can help women avoid hysterectomy, many women still face challenges becoming pregnant after treatment. RESTORE-FERT is investigating whether semaglutide may improve fertility and overall health in women following treatment.

The study aims to identify new approaches to supporting women who wish to conceive after treatment for endometrial cancer.

ENDO-3

ENDO-3 is investigating whether lymph node removal is necessary for women undergoing surgery for early-stage endometrial cancer.

Lymph node removal is commonly performed during surgery to determine whether cancer has spread. However, the procedure can increase the risk of lymphoedema, a long-term condition that can affect quality of life.

ENDO-3 is a large international clinical trial evaluating whether lymph node removal provides meaningful benefits for patients. The findings will help guide future treatment recommendations and may reduce treatment-related side effects for women with endometrial cancer.

Pre-ANVU & ANVU

ANVU is investigating whether a less invasive approach to monitoring the groin lymph nodes can reduce treatment-related side effects for women with vulvar cancer.

Vulvar cancer affects around 400 Australian women each year. Standard treatment often involves removal of the groin lymph nodes to determine whether cancer has spread, but this can increase the risk of lymphoedema and other long-term side effects.

Building on the promising findings of the Pre-ANVU study, the ANVU trial is evaluating whether high-resolution ultrasound can safely and effectively replace groin lymph node removal for some women. The study will assess both cancer outcomes and quality of life.

The aim is to reduce treatment-related side effects while maintaining safe and effective care for women with vulvar cancer.

ECHO

ECHO is investigating whether exercise during chemotherapy can improve treatment experiences and outcomes for women with ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynaecological cancer, and both the disease and its treatment can have a significant impact on physical wellbeing and quality of life. The ECHO trial is evaluating whether a structured exercise program can help women better manage the effects of chemotherapy, maintain their health and wellbeing, and complete treatment as planned.

The study aims to generate evidence that supports the integration of exercise into ovarian cancer care, helping improve outcomes and quality of life for women undergoing treatment.

ACUMEN

ACUMEN is investigating how exercise can support recovery and improve wellbeing after treatment for gynaecological cancer.

Many women experience ongoing physical and health challenges following cancer treatment and may have limited access to support that helps them safely incorporate exercise into their daily lives. The ACUMEN trial is evaluating the benefits of a personalised exercise program designed to support recovery and improve overall health and wellbeing.

The study aims to strengthen the evidence for exercise as a routine part of care after treatment, helping more women access the support they need to recover and thrive.

RECENTRE

RECENTRE is investigating how lifestyle support can improve health and quality of life after treatment for breast and gynaecological cancer.

Each year, thousands of Australian women are diagnosed with breast and gynaecological cancers. While many women complete treatment successfully, ongoing physical and health challenges can continue to affect quality of life.

RECENTRE is evaluating a comprehensive lifestyle program designed to support women after treatment. The study aims to improve health, wellbeing and quality of life, helping women achieve the best possible outcomes following cancer treatment.