Breast cancer blood test trial launches in UK

British researchers are embarking on a new project that will lay the foundation for the development of a simple blood test to detect early signs of breast cancer.

The Cancer Research UK-backed project will be conducted in collaboration with the University of Leicester and Imperial College London and will see blood samples taken from patients attending the breast screening clinic at Charing Cross Hospital.

By comparing DNA samples with those of diagnosed breast cancer sufferers, scientists will be able to determine which genetic markers characterise the disease, making detection and treatment monitoring much easier.

This could lead to the development of new diagnostic methods that are quicker and less stressful for the patients involved.

Kate Law, director of clinical research at Cancer Research UK, said: "We really do hope that in the not-too-distant future a simple blood test for breast cancer, which could not only detect cancer but help with treatment options, will become standard practice on the NHS."

Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in the UK, affecting around 48,000 women each year.