Test predicts the risk of breast cancer

AN accurate test to calculate a woman’s chance of getting breast cancer at any point in her life has been developed by scientists who call it a ‘game-changer’.

GPs can use an online tool to predict a woman’s risk, potentially decades in advance of symptoms.

Experts at Cambridge University say the test, which combines a DNA cheek swab or blood test with a woman’s family history and basic health checks, is the ‘most comprehensive method’ yet developed to predict breast cancer risk.

The test, which is being piloted by doctors, uses more than 300 genetic indicators, along with weight, alcohol consumption and other medical information, such as age of menopause for older women.

The scientists, funded by Cancer Research UK, believe the tool could help at-risk women adopt more healthy lifestyles to minimise the danger of cancer.

Those at most risk could even be given tamoxifen – hormone drugs which cut the chances of developing breast cancer.

Study leader Professor Antonis Antoniou, whose findings are published in the Genetics In Medicine journal, said: ‘It could be a game-changer for breast cancer because now we can identify women with different levels of risk.’

Every year 55,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Britain.