Blood test may replace mammograms

Mammograms could soon be consigned to the past after a new blood test was developed to check for signs of breast cancer.

Experts in England are in the final stages of creating the “warning sign” DNA test which, it is claimed, may be better at picking up risk factors earlier than mammograms, x-rays and other examinations.

The potential breakthrough, which is being funded by Cancer Research UK, and is being trialed at Charing Cross Hospital in London, works by comparing the DNA in blood samples from women who go on to develop breast cancer with those who are healthy.

If successful, the research team — led by Leicester University’s Dr Jacqui Shaw — will have effectively found the DNA markers for breast cancer, making early diagnoses a significantly more likely outcome.

“This exciting research means we could one day have a blood test that detects the very early signs of cancer, meaning women could have an annual blood test rather than breast screening,” Dr Shaw told British media.

“I think this approach has the potential to impact significantly on screening in quite a short time,” he added.

While the test is still at the final trial stage, early indications suggest it will be better at diagnosing breast cancer than current mammogram and x-ray procedures. Treatments tailored for specific patients could also be developed, it is hoped, as the DNA tests will show what genetic abnormalities — if any — are apparent in the cancer.

If the research continues to prove successful, similar approaches to lung and bowel cancer are being considered.

(SOURCE: Cancer Research UK)