3 Inventors Who Have Made a Difference for Breast Cancer Patients

Since 1985, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been observed across the country every October. This annual campaign is intended to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. It is also an ideal time to honor innovators who have contributed to our understanding of breast cancer – from detection and treatment to supporting the well-being of patients and survivors. Read on to meet three such inventors who have been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame^®.

Angela Hartley Brodie

Inductee Angela Hartley Brodie discovered and developed a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which are among the leading therapies against breast cancer. Many breast cancers are hormone dependent, requiring estrogen to reproduce and grow. Aromatase inhibitors work by interfering with aromatase, the enzyme that catalyzes the key step in the body’s synthesis of estrogens, essentially starving hormone-dependent cancers of their estrogen fuel supply. Currently, three aromatase inhibitors are FDA approved and it is estimated that 500,000 women worldwide now receive aromatase inhibitor therapy every year.

Kristina M. Johnson

Inductee Kristina Johnson is the co-inventor of 3D cinema technology. A pioneer in optoelectronic processing systems, 3D imaging and color management systems, her work has contributed not only to 3D films and rear projection systems for televisions, but also to potentially lifesaving healthcare applications including faster screening of pap smears for cervical cancer and digital mammograms, which have aided in the detection of breast cancer. “There is nothing like coming up with something that will make people happy or live a better life,” Johnson said.

Lisa Lindahl

Inductee Lisa Lindhal is not only a co-inventor of the world’s first sports bra, advancing women’s health while launching a global industry, but she also co-created the Bellisse Compressure Comfort^® Bra. This patented, adjustable compression garment is designed to provide comfort and support for breast cancer patients and survivors. Lindahl has described the garment as “a foundational piece in the long journey of women rediscovering their definition of health and comfort while finding relief from breast cancer procedures and side effects.”

Nominate an Inventor

Has a great inventor made a difference in your life? Help us honor an inspiring inventor who holds a U.S. patent by visiting our website to nominate them for a future National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductee class. Nomination is a great opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements of those whose innovations have changed our lives and our world.