A major new research project into the causes of breast cancer was launched this week. A 50-year project, called The Breakthrough Generations Study, aims to recruit 100,000 women age 18 or older to the largest cohort ever monitored in breast cancer research.
‘The Breakthrough Generations Study aims to make this a reality by carrying out a unique, dedicated examination of the genetic, environmental, behavioural and hormonal factors thought to influence the risk of developing what is the UK’s most common cancer in women,’ said a spokesperson for Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Institute of Cancer Research, who are jointly running the project.
‘Within a few years, we can expect the first results of the study to emerge, giving us a unique insight into the causes of breast cancer and, eventually, allowing us to work out methods to prevent it occurring in the first place,’ said Alan Ashworth, head of breast cancer research at the Institute.