It's hoped New Zealand researchers may be able to shed new answers on the treatment of breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Foundation has announced grants for six pilot studies on topics covering issues like testing, recurrence, obesity and exercise.

Chief executive Van Henderson says today's announcement marks World Cancer Day.

"It's to promote healthy lifestyle choices, early detection, treatment for all people, and quality of life," she says.

Van Henderson says they'll also fund studies into questions around the role of obesity and exercise.

"Really vital questions that will make a difference to how we treat the disease."