Millions of breast cancer patients world-wide could be told they can skip chemotherapy – without risking their chances of survival – thanks to new research. The amazing breakthrough, using a genetic test, highlights which patients need chemotherapy and those who don’t. Four thousand patients across the world, including some in the UK, took part in the OPTIMA trial. It showed that a large number of hormone positive breast cancer patients can safely avoid chemotherapy on the basis of a gene test conducted on the breast cancer itself.
The trial worked out how aggressive the genes are driving the cancer’s growth based on a biopsy or tumour sample after surgery. The study led by University College London, showed that patients with a low risk score could skip chemo and be treated with surgery and long-term hormone therapy with 93.6 per cent of patients still in remission after five years. That compared to 94.8 per cent of patients who had chemotherapy as well.
“This research will allow personalisation of treatment ensuring the correct treatment for each patient. It will spare thousands of British women the difficult physical and psychological side effects of chemotherapy.
“It is a great step forward,” said Future Dreams trustee Dr Fharat Raja, a member of the Optima international trial leadership team and Trustee of Future Dreams, who reported her excitement at the encouraging results of OPTIMA.
Some men took part in the study but too few to draw firm conclusions.
Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity is the only dedicated breast cancer support service of its kind supporting people across the UK. The charity offers a wide range of in-person and online services, providing practical, emotional and psychological support for those impacted by breast cancer – from diagnosis, through treatment, and for many years beyond. This includes tailored support for people living with secondary breast cancer, alongside investment in groundbreaking research and the promotion of breast health awareness.
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Sylvie and Danielle began Future Dreams with just £100 in 2008. They believed nobody should face breast cancer alone. Their legacy lives on in Future Dreams House. We couldn’t continue to fund support services for those touched by breast cancer, raise awareness of breast cancer and promote early diagnosis and advance research into secondary breast cancer without your help. Please consider partnering with us or making a donation.