June 18, 2024

Detecting Breast Cancer Earlier Through Blood Tests

Brandon University’s new Breast Cancer Cell and Molecular Research Laboratory, led by Dr. Mousumi Majumder, aims to detect breast cancer at earlier stages through a blood test. Dr. Majumder, a biology professor and Canada Research Chair in Genotoxicology, is focused on finding sensitive molecular markers that can identify the disease before current technologies like mammograms can.

The lab’s primary goal is to help younger women, who are not typically screened for breast cancer, by using these blood tests. Dr. Majumder’s team is searching for RNA markers in the blood that could indicate the presence of small tumors as early as Stage 1.

Early detection is crucial. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Treatments for breast cancer are more effective and are better tolerated when started early.

Dr. Majumder’s research is supported by Breast Cancer Canada.

The new lab, symbolically painted pink, was inaugurated last October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It currently collaborates with the London Regional Tumour Bank in Ontario for biopsy and blood samples, which are then analyzed by Majumder’s students. About 20 students are involved in this groundbreaking research, which was previously conducted in a smaller lab.

The lab’s establishment is seen as a significant advancement for breast cancer research in Brandon, Manitoba – and nationally across Canada. Dr. Majumder’s work represents a promising step forward in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

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