Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affect millions of women across the world. As with all cancers, researchers are working around the clock to discover new ways of managing and treating the disease, in the hopes a cure is around the corner.
As technology continues to improve and develop, as do the available treatments for different diseases and conditions. Breast cancer research sees an incredible amount of funding and support, and as a result we are continuing to see improving treatments for the disease. We’ve listed some of the latest below. Read on to find out more.
EndoPredict Test
The EndoPredict test for breast cancer has proved to be a revolutionary development for breast cancer treatment. It works by examining the genetic material in breast cancer tissue and drawing up a score based on the information found. This score is known as an EPclin Risk score, it can be used to predict how likely the cancer is to spread and can guide doctors about what kind of treatment plan to proceed with. If the EndoPredict test deems someone to be low risk, this means that the cancer is unlikely to spread and that they will not need to undergo chemotherapy. However, if they are scored as high risk then the cancer is more likely to spread, and chemotherapy treatment is advised.
Capivasertib
After a stage III clinical trial, the drug capivasertib has been found to effectively slow the progression of advanced breast cancer when used in conjunction with hormone therapy. The study returned some remarkable results, with the drug proving to be effective for all participants in the trial, including those with tumours that had mutations. The median time for disease progression increased from 3.6 months to 7.2 months in those treated with capivasertib, while it also shrank tumours in 23% of participants, compared to 12% who were given a placebo.
Imaging Tests
Imaging, such as through the use of an MRI machine or a CT scanner, is used to generate detailed, high-quality images of the inside of the body. Imaging is used in the diagnosis of a wide range of different conditions, and it is particularly valuable when diagnosing and managing cancer. By using imaging, doctors can identify tumours and monitor their growth during treatment. Imaging can also be used as a guide for surgeons before removing cancerous cells.
Imaging technology continues to improve and the pictures it can generate are more detailed than ever before. Many specialised types of imaging are being developed specifically for breast cancer patients, including scintimammography, positron emission mammography, and abbreviated breast MRI. These developments are exciting, they will improve treatments and aid doctors in early cancer detection and prevention.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a horrible disease that kills around 11,499 people every year in the UK. Researchers are committed to fighting the disease and we’re constantly seeing new and improved treatments being developed for people living with breast cancer, including the EndoPredict test, capivasertib, and new imaging tests.