One of the most common cancers in the world, breast cancer has become the most prevalent form of cancer in India. Diagnosis for breast cancer usually involves medical examinations to detect physical lumps, along with mammography for women over the age 40 years to analyze abnormalities. Women with dense breast tissues are often recommended for ultrasound to provide detailed images, while in some cases, an MRI could also be suggested. Atypical findings are sent out for biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.
A significant breakthrough has garnered attention after Spanish researchers concluded that breast milk from breast cancer patients was found containing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), detected via liquid biopsy. Although further research and validation are required to commence extensive clinical trials, initial study using blood and breast milk samples from 15 breast cancer patients found that ctDNA was present in breast milk samples of 13 patients, while it was only detected in one blood sample.
Dr. Manisha Khalane, Lactation Consultant at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune says, “The revolutionary discovery by the Spanish researchers could save numerous lives worldwide and sheds light on the potential screening of breast milk into routine postpartum care. Owing to its high rises in breast cancer patients, India can significantly benefit from these findings by implementing routine checkups for women, especially among younger women to increase the country’s early detection rates.”
The methodology, if successful, could provide potentially immense respite to patients by detecting breast cancer mutations early, thus improving survival rates and decreasing the chances and burdens of diagnosis at later stages. Medical institutions in India must collaborate with researchers worldwide to comprehend the different methodologies and accelerate such transformative discoveries which, when implemented, could ensure prompt medical assistance and an improved healthcare system in a country as massive as India.
