Critical gaps in breast cancer research are identified

Scientists from the University of Sheffield have helped a leading charity to identify critical gaps in breast cancer research which need to be urgently addressed to prevent the loss of around 185,000 lives by 2030. Four world-leading researchers, from the University's Department of Oncology, assisted the Breast Cancer Campaign (BCC) in a landmark analysis, published today (1 October 2013) in Breast Cancer Research, which shows greater investment, collaboration and renewed focus is vital. Professor Nicola Brown, Dr Helen Bryant, Professor Angela Cox and Dr Ingunn Holen took part in the pioneering analysis that highlights the top ten gaps and key research priorities in areas such as genetics, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support, which, if overcome, will have a significant impact on the lives of those affected. The Gap Analysis 2013, which is a unique collaboration of over 100 internationally recognised scientists, clinicians and healthcare professionals, is the most comprehensive review of breast cancer research to have recently taken place and provides information about how to overcome - prevent, cure and outlive - breast cancer by 2050. Critical gaps identified include: understanding how genetic changes lead to the development of breast cancer, identifying sustainable lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise which can reduce a woman's risk of breast cancer, as well as improving risk-reducing drugs (chemo-prevention) for women with increased likelihood of disease development, and targeting breast screening to those who will benefit most, by finding more accurate and practical ways to calculate an individual's risk of developing breast cancer.