Overview
A prototype machine designed to identify tumors in women with dense breast tissue has been developed in Newcastle. This initiative is part of a collaborative research program involving:
- Kromek, a technology group
- Newcastle Hospitals
- Newcastle University
- University College London
The project has secured £2.5 million in funding from Innovate UK and is set to enter clinical trials following the completion of the current prototype testing phase.
Significance of the Technology
Dr. George Petrides, a consultant radiologist at Newcastle Hospitals, expressed enthusiasm about the technological advancements being made, stating:
“This technology has the potential to make a real difference in breast cancer screening and aspects of the project could have a wider impact in nuclear medicine scanning.”
Challenges with Dense Breast Tissue
Breast tissue consists of both fatty and fibroglandular components. Women with dense breasts have a higher proportion of fibroglandular tissue, which complicates mammogram interpretations since both dense tissue and tumors appear white on the scans. This makes it challenging to differentiate between the two.
Current Detection Methods
Dr. Nerys Forester, a consultant breast radiologist, noted that:
- Approximately 40% of women have dense breast tissue, which is often only identified during mammograms.
- While mammograms are generally effective, women with dense tissue face a slightly elevated risk of breast cancer.
- New technologies that enhance cancer detection in dense breasts are crucial.
Advancements in Imaging Technology
The new molecular breast imaging (MBI) technology utilizes a radioactive tracer to illuminate cancerous areas in the breast. Key benefits include:
- Higher sensitivity for detecting cancer in dense breast tissue compared to standard mammograms.
- Reduced scan time of approximately 10 minutes.
- Lower radiation exposure for patients.
- Enhanced precision through 3D imaging capabilities.
This technology aims to streamline procedures and provide clearer imaging of tumor locations without the need for additional scans.
Expert Insights
Dr. Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek, emphasized the potential life-saving impact of this technology:
“Our new, ultra-fast MBI technology has the potential to save women’s lives by enabling earlier, faster, more accurate detection of breast cancers, especially in those with dense breast tissue.”
Professor Kris Thielemans from University College London highlighted the project’s significance for improving diagnostic options for women with dense breast tissue.
Future Prospects
The project is currently in the prototype testing phase and will soon transition to clinical trials. The collaboration aims to enhance breast cancer detection and improve health outcomes for women at risk.