Groundbreaking genomic test could spare millions of breast cancer patients chemotherapy
A new genomic test could allow millions of women with hormone-positive breast cancer to avoid chemotherapy. The test identifies patients who can be treated safely with hormone therapy alone, leading to similar outcomes without the harsh side effects of chemotherapy. This breakthrough could significantly change treatment protocols and improve the quality of life for many patients.
- ▪The genomic test can determine which breast cancer patients need chemotherapy and which do not.
- ▪Results from the Optima trial suggest that patients with a low test score can safely skip chemotherapy.
- ▪The trial involved over 4,000 patients across multiple countries and showed similar outcomes for those who received hormone therapy alone compared to those who also had chemotherapy.
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Researchers say the findings could reshape treatment for many patients with hormone-positive breast cancer. Photograph: Damian Dovarganes/APView image in fullscreenResearchers say the findings could reshape treatment for many patients with hormone-positive breast cancer. Photograph: Damian Dovarganes/APBreast cancerGroundbreaking genomic test could spare millions of breast cancer patients chemotherapyTrial suggests patients with a low test score could be treated with hormone therapy alone with near-identical outcomes ‘Like Christmas’: woman’s relief after test finds she can skip chemotherapy Andrew Gregory in ChicagoFri 29 May 2026 15.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleMillions of women with breast cancer could be spared chemotherapy with a groundbreaking genomic test, according to…
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