Chemo Avoided: New Test Saves Breast Cancer Patients

Millions of breast cancer patients could potentially avoid chemotherapy thanks to a revolutionary genomic test identified in a clinical trial. This advancement offers hope for sparing individuals from the harsh side effects of chemotherapy, such as hair loss, nausea, and infertility.

The Optima trial, conducted by University College London, involved over 4,400 men and women aged 40 and above who had undergone surgery for hormone-sensitive breast cancer. All participants were considered at high risk for recurrence and would typically have been prescribed chemotherapy.

Using the Prosigna genomic test, researchers measured gene activity related to breast cancer growth. Patients with a high score (above 60) received chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Those with a low score (60 or less) were treated with hormone therapy alone.

After five years, the study found that outcomes for low-scoring patients who skipped chemotherapy were nearly identical to those who received it. Specifically, 94.8% of patients receiving both chemotherapy and hormone therapy were alive and cancer-free, compared to 93.6% of those treated with hormone therapy only.

Researchers are confident that this evidence supports a significant reduction in chemotherapy use globally for eligible breast cancer patients. However, further research is needed to determine if the test offers the same benefits for men and individuals under 40.

One trial participant, Karen Bonham, 64, from Cardiff, experienced immense relief when she was told she did not require chemotherapy, having already prepared for treatment. She subsequently received radiotherapy and hormone therapy, returning to a normal life.