Open Access News Cancer Research News Blood test predicts breast cancer recurrence years in advance June 11, 2024 image: @kasto80 | iStock In a significant advancement for breast cancer treatment, a new blood test has shown the ability to predict the recurrence of breast cancer up to three years before tumours become detectable through conventional scans This development is seen as a major step forward in the fight against breast cancer, potentially offering a lifeline to millions of women diagnosed with the disease each year. The risk of breast cancer Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, with over two million new cases annually. Despite improvements in treatment, many patients face the risk of cancer returning, often at a more advanced and difficult-to-treat stage.
The new blood test, a type of liquid biopsy, aims to change that by offering an early warning system for cancer recurrence. The liquid biopsy detects tiny fragments of cancer DNA, known as circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), in the bloodstream. This method is significantly more sensitive than previous tests, which relied on detecting a smaller number of genetic mutations.
The new test employs whole genome sequencing, searching for 1,800 mutations, increasing its sensitivity and accuracy. Testing blood sample to reveal risk reccuring of breast cancer In a trial conducted by researchers at the Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre in London, blood samples from 78 breast cancer pati.
