UK to introduce breast-cancer blood test

A blood test that could detect breast cancer in its earliest stages is being introduced in the UK, it emerged today.

The test has been developed by Norwegian life sciences company DiaGenic ASA and works by detecting gene expression patterns in blood samples not taken from the breast.

It is designed to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages when women have no symptoms.

Experts predict it could be used alongside mammograms to help detect cancer and could be useful for younger women.

This is because breasts are denser when women are younger and therefore mammograms may not detect changes in the breast tissue.

The test will be available privately.

Dr Emma Pennery, nurse consultant at Breast Cancer Care, said: “From speaking to women on our helpline, Breast Cancer Care knows that any new way of improving detection rates of breast cancer would be welcomed.

“Breast Cancer Care understands that this new type of blood test would be of particular interest to younger women.

“However it is important to remember that 80% of all breast cancers are diagnosed in those aged 50 and over, for which there is already an established and expanding national screening programme.

“Any younger women found to be at a high risk of breast cancer, either through significant family history or as a carrier of the BRACA 1 or 2 gene, will receive annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests, which are effective in detecting breast cancers in younger women.

“Regardless of age, it is vital that all women remain breast aware throughout their life by knowing how their breasts look and feel normally, and by reporting any changes direct to their GP.”

Dr Sarah Rawlings, head of policy at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “New ways to improve early detection of breast cancer are to be encouraged because the earlier the disease is diagnosed and treated the better the chances of a successful outcome.

“For such a test to be used widely it is important that both its accuracy and reliability are proven. Although we know mammograms can be difficult to interpret in women with dense breast tissue – and this includes younger women – it’s important to remember that breast cancer is rare in younger women.

“Breakthrough Breast Cancer encourages all women over 50 to attend their breast screening appointments when invited.”