Monday, September 16, 2013

DNA Test Reveals 80 Markers For Inherited Cancer Risk


More than 80 genetic markers that can increase the risk of developing breast, prostate or ovarian cancer have been found in the largest study of its kind.
The DNA of 200,000 people – half of them with cancer and half without – was compared, revealing an individual’s inherited risk of the diseases.
British scientists, who led the research, believe it could lead to a DNA screening test within five years.
They also hope it will boost knowledge of how the cancers develop.
The research was led by scientists at the University of Cambridge and the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London and funded by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the Wellcome Trust.
The main findings are published in five articles in the journal Nature Genetics.
Study author Prof Doug Easton said: “We’re on the verge of being able to use our knowledge of these genetic variations to develop test that could complement breast cancer screening and take us a step closer to having an effective prostate cancer screening programme.”

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