Women needed for breast cancer research

Malta is taking part in an international trial of a drug aimed at preventing breast cancer.

Post-menopausal women who are at high risk of developing the disease, such as those with a family history of breast cancer, are being asked to volunteer for the research.

Stephen Brincat, the chairman of the Radiotherapy and Oncology Department at Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, said nine women were currently taking part in the study but the department was seeking more volunteers.

"Thousands of people are taking part in the study all over the world and there is no reason why we should not have more," he said in a press statement, adding that taking part in the trial should not have an effect on the women's daily lives.

The volunteers for the IBIS-II study will be offered a free mammogram and bone density tests as well as a thorough physical examination and blood tests. Afterwards, two groups will be chosen at random and given either the new drug - Anastrazole - or a placebo.

Dr Brincat said that in a previous study, the drug Tamoxifen had already been shown to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer and it was hoped that Anastrazole would be at least as good, but with fewer side effects.

The incidence of breast cancer, Dr Brincat said, had risen considerably in the last 30 years all over the world. In Malta, the incidence went up from 180 in 1994 to 218 in 2004, according to statistics gathered by the National Cancer Registry.

However, mortality has started to fall. In Malta, registry statistics showed 101 deaths attributable to breast cancer in 1994, which went down to 61 last year.

"This is very encouraging news for all those concerned and is the result of earlier diagnosis and improved treatment," he said.

Dr Brincat said mammography and screening did not prevent breast cancer but an earlier diagnosis improved the outcome of treatment.

"Women who are diagnosed earlier also tend to require less treatment - less extensive surgery and less chemotherapy."

Contacted by The Times, Dr Brincat said that in the past years publicity about breast cancer had made women more aware of the condition. He said although a mammogram is not usually required by women under the age of 40, it was still imperative for younger women to be aware of their bodies and check for any lumps in their breasts. Although breast cancer in women in their 30s or under was quite rare, it was not impossible.

Women past menopause who would like to take part in the trial are invited to call department secretary Frances Scerri on 2298 7163 for prior vetting regarding eligibility.