New breast cancer test available

Nova Scotia women who have a particular kind of early stage breast cancer will now be able to access the Oncotype Dx test.

The test — which measures cancer genes in a patient’s breast cancer tissue to help determine if chemotherapy is beneficial following surgery — is now available as part of a $75,000 pilot project by the Nova Scotia Health Authority.

The project is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Oncotype Dx test, which has the potential to spare some women from having chemotherapy that

“The Nova Scotia Health Authority and the program of care for cancer are committed to ensuring cancer patients receive high-quality treatment and care, based on the latest evidence and leading practice.” Dr. Drew Bethune

is unlikely to benefit them.

“The Nova Scotia Health Authority and the program of care for cancer are committed to ensuring cancer patients receive high-quality treatment and care, based on the latest evidence and leading practice,” said Dr. Drew Bethune, medical director of the program of care for cancer, in a release.

Oncotype Dx is appropriate for women with endocrine sensitive and HER2 negative early stage breast cancer who meet other clinical eligibility criteria.

The pilot program began July 4 and will run until March 31.

Between 60 and 70 Nova Scotia women who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer are expected to qualify for the Oncotype Dx test during the pilot.