Breast cancer improvement – an updated quality standard
England and Wales
People diagnosed with a type of early breast cancer and at risk of the cancer spreading should be offered an Oncotype DX test.
This test provides information about genetic makeup of the tumour to help predict its development. This information can be used to personalise treatment decisions by identifying atients most likely to benefit from treatment with chemotherapy after surgery and those who won’t need this, so avoiding unnecessary side effects.
This test is one of 3 new key areas for improvement highlighted in the updated quality standard.
People with suspected breast cancer who have been referred to a specialist should be offered a full assessment at a single visit to the hospital or specialist unit. This involves an examination, breast imaging and, if needed, a biopsy. Having all 3 in a single visit will help ensure a faster diagnosis and be more efficient. ….more