Blood test predicts breast cancer recurrence years in advance

Breast cancer recurrencecan occur months or even years after the initial treatment. Now, a groundbreaking blood test is revolutionising breast cancer recurrence detection by offering a potential game-changer in early intervention.

The risk of breast cancer recurrence varies depending on factors such as the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the type of cancer, the effectiveness of initial treatment, and individual health factors. Some women may be at higher risk of recurrence than others.

More than just a diagnostic tool, this new test could be the beacon of hope for millions of women battling breast cancer worldwide.The approach to breast cancer treatment has faced a significant challenge- the probability of cancer recurrence.

But now, a new research showcased at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting in Chicago introduced a glimmer of hope. This is a personalised liquid biopsy capable of providing early indications of cancer's return, long before conventional scans can detect any tumours.

Trial results

In the trial involving 78 patients with various types of breast cancer, the test successfully predicted recurrence in all 11 patients who relapsed during the five-year period.

This innovative test, designed to detect minuscule traces of cancer DNA in the bloodstream, has proven to be remarkably sensitive. According to trial results presented by researchers at the Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre in London, it can accurately forecast the risk of cancer recurrence months or even years before any visible symptoms manifest.

Simon Vincent, director of research at Breast Cancer Now, expressed enthusiasm over the findings.

"Early detection is one of our greatest weapons against breast cancer," he said while highlighting the significance of catching recurrence in its nascent stages.

The study, led by Isaac Garcia-Murillas at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London, underscored the test's precision in identifying circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which can serve as a precursor to cancer recurrence.

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Unlike previous tests, which employed less sensitive techniques, this new approach utilises whole genome sequencing to search for a broad spectrum of mutations. This enhances its accuracy.

(With inputs from agencies)