Breast density could trigger cancer
Reported February 17, 2010
MELBOURNE researchers have discovered a link between breast cancer and dense breast tissue.
In a world first, researchers from the University of Melbourne found two genetic variants associated with breast cancer that influence the density of a woman’s breast tissue.
The researchers found the variants when they studied more than 2000 mammograms, which reveal density, and DNA from blood samples.
The finding could help doctors identify women at high risk of developing breast cancer, said Professor John Hopper, from the university’s School of Population Health.
The finding, published in Cancer Research, could also help explain the biological causes of the disease.
”This is the beginning of a new research focus on how cancer begins and the role mammographic density plays,” Professor Hopper said.
Density can only be examined with the help of a mammogram, Professor Hopper said.
The research will not change the advice given to Australian women about screening or the way mammograms are conducted, chief executive of BreastScreen Victoria, Vicki Pridmore, said.
Australian women aged between 50 and 69 should have a mammogram every two years through the service, which is funded by the states and federal government.
The service is also open to women aged 40 to 49 and those 70 and over.
Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death in Australian women. About one in 11 women will be diagnosed with the disease before the age of 75.
Source : www.theage.com.au
