Breast cancer breakthrough boosts survival hopes

THE lifespan of breast cancer patients could be extended by almost a third thanks to a breakthrough in research by Irish scientists.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Irish women. Every year, approximately 1,800 women are diagnosed with it and 650 die from the disease.

But researchers at the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland (RCSI) have developed a protein which blocks an insulin-like growth factor, called IGFI, which stimulates the cancer cells and blood vessels that feed the tumour.

“The protein has shown in a pre-clinical model that it can inhibit breast tumour growth, increase survival by 30% and then reduce secondary growths in bones,” Dr Judith Harmey said.

For most breast cancer patients, the primary tumour can be treated by surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, many patients develop secondary tumours which are usually resistant to treatment.

The six-year research project, funded by the Irish Cancer Society, was presented at a RCSI research day in Dublin yesterday.

“This approach... targets the tumour only and not normal cells. It is less intrusive, toxic and more specific than chemotherapy,” Dr Harmey said.

The RCSI researchers anticipate the protein will be of value in treating both breast and prostate cancers.

Dr Harmey said it would be three or four years before the research could potentially be used on people with breast cancer. “We are absolutely delighted, it has worked better than ever expected,” she said.

The Irish Breast Cancer Campaign, Europa Donna Ireland, welcomed the breakthrough.

“We hope work on translating the results of this research into clinical application will proceed as quickly as possible, thus alleviating much physical and psychological suffering endured by breast and prostate cancer patients,” said chairwoman Deirdre O’Connell.