New technology may prove vital in faster screening of breast cancer says Euro- MP.
October 7, 2008 4:20 PM
Originally published by Liz Lynne MEP
Originally published by Liz Lynne MEP
Liz Lynne, the Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands has said that new computer technology could help the NHS screen more women for breast cancer.
Her comments came at an exhibition in the European Parliament to raise awareness of the issues surrounding breast cancer and its treatment in EU Member States, hosted by a member of MEP's Against Cancer, a group that Liz co-chairs.
Last week, Cancer Research UK presented data showing that a computer, plus one expert, correctly diagnosed 198 cancers out of 227, this is just one less than the present system, of two experts conducting double- readings found. The results suggest that the new technology could significantly increase the amount of patients the NHS can screen.
Current guidelines say that women aged 50 to 70 should be checked for breast cancer every three years, but a lack of experts means that in some areas these targets are not met.
Speaking at the Brussels exhibition, Liz said:
"It is vital that we continue to highlight the importance of understanding breast cancer, and fight to make sure that every woman can receive regular checks against the disease. Exhibitions like this one are important not only for keeping the issue of breast cancer at the forefront of peoples minds, but also for helping inform politicians what advances there have been and how they can help.
Commenting on the Cancer Research UK report she said:
"The UK is above average for both incidences, and mortality rates for breast cancer in the EU. This research could help significantly reduce the time women have to wait for breast cancer screening and could ultimately save lives. For this reason the research undertaken by Cancer Research UK should be applauded.
"However, this is not to say the process is perfect. We must continue to develop faster, more effective technology, with the aim of one day being able to correctly diagnose 100% of tumours and allow doctors to deal with them before they develop."
ENDS
Notes:
A full breakdown of breast cancer statistics throughout the EU in 2006 can be found at: http://annonc.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/18/3/581
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