Biomarkers of Breast Cancer Prevention
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Defining biomarkers of response and resistance to breast cancer prevention.
IRAS ID
234091
Contact name
Sacha Howell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
Breast cancer (BC) remains the commonest cause of cancer death in women globally and incidence is rising. Drugs such as tamoxifen and anastrozole, when taken for five years, can reduce the incidence of BC by up to 50% in women at increased risk. The amount of white on a mammogram is termed mammographic density (MD) and percentage MD is the strongest modifiable risk factor for breast cancer. If MD declines by >10% with tamoxifen treatment BC incidence is reduced by 70%. Such reductions occur in 50% of premenopausal women but density reductions with AIs in postmenopausal women are less conclusive and improved biomarkers to guide and personalise prevention strategies are required.
In this study we will recruit women at increased risk of BC who are due to start preventive treatment with tamoxifen or anastrozole. Breast biopsy and blood tests will be performed before and after 3 months of treatment and changes in the biopsies related to the change in MD. We will also explore the use of ultrasound and electrical impedance of the breast to predict response to preventive therapy. After the 3 month biopsies women will continue with their regular management and we will continue to collect data from mammograms and any cancer diagnoses.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0387
Date of REC Opinion
6 Aug 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion