Research summary
December 2006
Research into potential new methods for early detection of breast cancer
Summary
Research into potential new ways of detecting breast cancer has been featured in the Australian media recently.
Australian researcher Professor Christobel Saunders has been awarded a grant to investigate a ‘breath test’ for breast cancer. This involves the development of a non-invasive breast cancer screening device that takes readings of the 2000 or more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a sample of human breath. Previous studies have found the presence of VOCs in exhaled air may indicate the presence of early signs of breast cancer. The aim of this study is to explore the use of the breath test in identifying women scheduled for screening mammography who are highly unlikely to have breast cancer, thus eliminating the need for them to have a mammogram.
Another test for breast cancer being investigated utilises a sample of a woman’s hair. The test exposes the sample of hair to a finely focussed X-ray beam. The resulting image is then inspected for minute changes in the structure that might indicate the presence of breast cancer. This technology has previously been tested in several smaller studies. Fermiscan, the Australian company producing the technology, commenced a major validation trial in December 2006 involving 2000 Australian women. The trial is being conducted in selected radiology clinics in Sydney and will involve women who have been referred to a radiologist for a mammogram. Fermiscan has indicated the trial will run for several months.
National Breast Cancer Centre comment
Any proposed new methods of screening for cancer must meet certain international standards before they can be established as a population screening program. These standards evaluate such things as the suitability of the test and weigh up the benefits of the test against both the cost and the chance of physical or psychological harm to those screened.
Finding breast cancer early makes a significant difference to a woman’s chance of surviving the disease. Any new research into ways of increasing the accuracy of diagnosis and the early detection of breast cancer is welcome.
Research into both the breath test and hair scan technology is still in its early stages and their effectiveness and reliability would need to be validated in large clinical trials before consideration of their routine availability. Until further research is conducted it is not possible to indicate what role either of these technologies could have in the early detection of breast cancer.
We have evidence of the benefit of screening mammography in the early detection of breast cancer, particularly for women aged 50 to 69 years. Women in this age group are encouraged to attend for two-yearly screening mammograms. Additionally, it is important for all women to get to know the normal look and feel of their breasts and see their doctor without delay if they notice any changes.