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Ethnic Minorities Benefit from New Cancer Gene Test
13 Apr
Summary
- New genetic testing now includes a fifth DPYD variant.
- This variant is more common in Black and minority ethnic patients.
- Expanded testing alters chemotherapy doses for at-risk patients.
Thousands of Black and minority ethnic cancer patients in England will now receive enhanced genetic testing before chemotherapy. This vital test identifies a specific DPYD gene variant, more common in these populations, which was previously excluded from routine screening. Until last year, the genetic tests focused on variants primarily found in white Europeans, leaving minority ethnic patients more vulnerable to severe and potentially fatal chemotherapy side effects.
The NHS is now offering expanded testing across England, including the previously overlooked fifth DPYD genomic variant. This ensures that patients from African ancestry receive the same standard of safety as others. "Clinicians now have the means to deliver it," stated Prof Veline L'Esperance, reflecting a move from discussion to action on ethnic health inequality in cancer care.
Since its implementation in September last year at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, three patients from minority ethnic backgrounds have had their chemotherapy doses adjusted due to the new testing. This precision medicine approach aligns with the NHS's commitment to reducing race and health inequalities, ensuring personalized care and reducing harmful drug reactions for all cancer patients.
