University helps in breakthrough in predicting cancer

GENETIC TEST WILL SHOW IF PATIENT WILL DEVELOP FORM OF ILLNESS

RESEARCHERS at the University of Leicester have helped to develop a genetic test that could predict whether people will develop a common type of leukaemia.

Working with seven other universities and the Institute for Cancer Research, the researchers studied blood samples of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) – the most common type of blood cancer – and found some had a “genetic tendency” to develop progressive forms of the illness.

The breakthrough means in the future people could be warned they possess the genetic make-up which could lead to developing progressive CLL and be treated before it takes effect.

Research has also shown that early treatment could help to improve survival chances.

Haematology consultant Dr David Allsup, who is also a senior lecturer at Hull York Medical School, said: “The study has demonstrated that CLL patients often possess the same genetic tendencies and as such we can analyse the non-cancerous cells of prospective patients to predict the likelihood of future diagnosis.

“The study also allows us to move towards a more personalised diagnosis of leukaemia, and adapt our approach for patients based on the likelihood of them developing aggressive symptoms.”

The illness varies in severity among patients. Some develop weight loss and lumps while others show no symptoms, despite the leukaemia cells being present in their blood.

Dr Allsup said: “Not only does the research inform us if patients have the genetic tendency to develop progressive CLL, it also enables us to determine whether or not a patient’s CLL will require treatment in the future.

“That way, we are able to keep a close eye on the patients with a high risk and have treatment options available as soon as they are required.”

Professor James Allan, from Newcastle University’s Centre for Cancer, said: “Emerging evidence suggests early treatment for patients at high risk of developing progressive CLL could significantly delay the onset of symptomatic leukaemia and improve survival.

“The results from this collaborative study will help patients and their doctors make important decisions about when to start treatment.”

While the discovery is not a cure for the disease, early identification will help people’s survival chances.

The study was a collaborative effort between nine UK institutions, including Hull York Medical School, Newcastle University, Cardiff University, Leeds University, Leicester University, Liverpool University, Oxford University, Southampton University and the Institute for Cancer Research in London