Thursday, May 12, 2011

The Breast Cancer News Daily: May 12

Today's breast cancer news covered breast cancer screening, genetic testing and aesthetics after breast cancer treatment.

First, Scientific American featured a story addressing current screening methods, (mammography, MRI and ultrasound), and products of the future, such as elastography, screening blood tests, a light energy scan and a breath test in development.

In Europe, a study funded by Cancer Research UK, found that a genetic blood test could reduce the number of screening mammograms without reducing the number of cancers detected. In theory, a simple blood test taken before a woman turns 35 would reveal her risk of breast cancer and when she should start screening mammography. For some, that would be at 35, for others, not until their 50s, 60s or later. The study was based upon a theoretical model, and more research is needed. Maybe this will someday put the "when to start screening" debate to rest!

On the subject of genetic testing, PhsyOrg.com reported that UK researchers are working on a genetic test to identify breast cancer patients at risk for bone metastasis.

In the only story not relating to testing, oncologists and surgeons are meeting in Portugal to discuss standards for evaluating aesthetic results of breast cancer surgery and radiation. According to a quote from the story in Medical News Today, "Medical professionals are now more concerned with the importance of the aesthetic results for patients who have undergone breast cancer treatment and conserving the breast in an 'aesthetically pleasing' way is seen as being essential to ensure a good quality of life."

Tomorrow, we'll highlight developments from the research world with our weekly look at the medical journals. As always, at LATESTBreastCancer.com, we welcome all comments and feedback.

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