Dr Simon Vincent, director of research, support and influencing at Breast Cancer Now, said:
"Early and fast detection are our best weapons against breast cancer, and this exciting research suggests that a type of molecule found in the blood could act as a warning sign of the disease.
"This research is still in its early stages and more evidence is needed before we can consider whether or not the blood test could be used in medical settings to detect cancer, but we look forward to seeing results from the trial.
“Right now, we must focus on the vital things people can do to detect breast cancer sooner, so they have the best chance of survival, such as regularly checking their breasts and attending breast screening appointments when invited.
“With 44% of UK women not checking their breasts regularly for possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer*, we need to do more to ensure every woman feels educated and empowered to regularly breast check, and knows the signs and symptoms of the disease, to help them spot any new or unusual breast changes, so they can get them checked out by a GP. This must go hand in hand with the government urgently prioritising and investing in the breast screening programme, which after years of neglect, is leaving far too many patients missing out on a vital service that can save lives from breast cancer. This is crucial to guarantee women’s access to breast screening – both now and for the future.
“Anyone affected by breast cancer can speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.”
ENDS
Notes to editor
*A nationally representative sample: All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2137 adult females. Fieldwork was undertaken between 10th - 12th September 2024. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adult females (aged 18+).
**The 44 % of women defined as not ‘regularly’ checking their breasts was made up of women responding that they checked their breasts at least once every 3 months; at least once every 6 months; at least once a year; less than once a year; or never. [‘regular’ breast checking included those who check their breasts at least once a week; at least once a month; and at least once every 6 weeks.]