Breast Cancer Care: launch of new blood test for early stage breast cancer

Thursday, 13 December 2007

Embargoed to Friday, December 14, 12.01am

Contact: Ian Manley

020 7960 3450/0770 290 1334

Statement from Breast Cancer Care

Comment on Opaldia’s announcement that it is to launch a diagnostic blood tests for early stage breast cancer in 2008.

Dr Emma Pennery, Nurse Consultant at Breast Cancer Care said:
“From speaking to women on our Helpline, Breast Cancer Care knows that any new way of improving detection rates of breast cancer would be welcomed.

“Breast Cancer Care understands that this new type of blood test would be of particular interest to younger women. However it is important to remember that 80 per cent of all breast cancers are diagnosed in those aged 50 and over, for which there is already an established and expanding national screening programme.

“Any younger women found to be at a high risk of breast cancer, either through significant family history or as a carrier of the BRACA 1 or 2 gene, will receive annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests, which are effective in detecting breast cancers in younger women.

“Regardless of age, it is vital that all women remain breast aware throughout their life by knowing how their breasts look and feel normally, and by reporting any changes direct to their GP.”

Ends

Anyone with breast cancer or breast health concerns can get free, confidential support and information from the Breast Cancer Care helpline on 0808 800 6000 or by visiting www.breastcancercare.org.uk

For further media information, please contact

Ian Manley

020 7960 3450/0770 290 1334

ianm@breastcancercare.org.uk