DNA Test Spares 2/3 of Breast Cancer Patients Chemotherapy

Imagine being told you have cancer, then learning you can skip one of the most dreaded parts of treatment without risking your life.

Scientists have developed a DNA test that identifies which breast cancer patients can safely avoid chemotherapy, and the results are transforming care for millions. The Prosigna gene test measures the activity of 50 genes involved in breast cancer growth, calculating each patient's risk of the disease returning.

An international study led by University College London tracked more than 4,000 newly diagnosed patients over 40 across six countries. Two-thirds received low risk scores and skipped chemotherapy entirely, relying instead on hormone therapy alone.

The results speak for themselves. The five-year survival rate for those who avoided chemotherapy reached 93.7%, compared to 94.9% for those who received it. That tiny difference means thousands of people can now avoid fatigue, nausea, hair loss, weakened immunity, and fertility issues without sacrificing their chance at survival.

Karen Bonham from Cardiff was one of the trial participants who avoided chemotherapy eight years ago. The 64-year-old called the results "like Christmas" and an "immense relief." She received radiotherapy and hormone therapy instead, dodging months of brutal side effects.

Professor David Miles, a leading cancer specialist, described the findings as "practice-changing." He explained that doctors used to give chemotherapy to 100 women to benefit just 10, knowing that 90 didn't actually need it. Now clinicians can confidently identify that larger group and spare them unnecessary suffering.

The test specifically helps people with early-stage breast cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes, the most common type. More than 5,000 NHS patients each year could benefit from this approach.

The Ripple Effect

Tanya Hutson, diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, underwent chemotherapy before this test became available. She called the development "absolutely amazing" and a "game changer," describing her own chemotherapy experience as "brutal." Her perspective highlights how this breakthrough will transform the cancer journey for countless future patients.

The research also validates the power of targeted treatment over the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. By identifying who truly needs aggressive treatment, doctors can personalize care while reducing harm.

Findings will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual meeting in Chicago, one of the world's largest cancer conferences. Researchers note that more studies are needed for patients under 40, with results expected in several years.

For now, thousands of people facing a terrifying diagnosis can move forward with one less fear.