Breast cancer blood test hope
Breast cancer blood test hope
FIRST ON 7: Sydney researchers are moving closer to developing a blood test for breast cancer.
Women under 50 miss out on Australia's free breast cancer screening program, but a simple test could help them and save lives.
Catherine Rolston was an unlikely candidate for breast cancer; she is young, with no family history of the disease.
Had she found the lump earlier it is likely the cancerous cells would not have spread into her lymph nodes.
Researchers at the Sydney Breast Clinic want to prevent cases like Catherine's, by developing a blood test.
Ron Phillips, of the centre, said it will be an ‘affordable test for breast cancer that is accessible to all women, regardless of age and where they live’.
Mammograms are less effective for women under 50 so many are not screened.
Collaborative research with the United States has discovered abnormal cells in blood can indicate breast cancer in women.
“You will have to ask your doctor to screen you for breast cancer, similar to cervical screening when you go to have your annual pap smear,” said Jayne Shaw of Sydney breast Clinic.
It will not be a diagnostic test - if cancer cells are detected in the blood a follow-up mammogram or ultrasound will be needed.
Earlier detection leads to a better outcome and Mr Phillips added: “It should have a significant impact on the survival rate of women who have cancer.”
The test should be available in 18 months to women of any age.
