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Pioneering research could halt breast cancer - 22/09/2008
Cutting edge research from the University of Sheffield has shown that breast cancer patients could soon benefit from a new combination of treatments that can stop tumours from growing, potentially improving chances of survival for millions of sufferers worldwide.
During treatment a breast cancer patient often receives a combination of several types of drugs, including chemotherapy, to stop tumours growing. Patients with advanced cancer may also be given a treatment known as bisphosphonate to prevent bone loss and protect against pain and weakness associated with cancer.
Research conducted by Dr Penelope Ottewell from the University’s School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that treating breast cancer using chemotherapy agent doxorubicin followed 24 hours later with bone-protecting drug zoledronic resulted in almost complete elimination of the tumour growth.
This latest research demonstrates the excellence of Yorkshire & Humber’s extensive R&D facilities, which give businesses access to a wealth of expertise and potential innovation to capitalise on. The region’s research base includes one of the UK’s highest concentrations of cancer research organisations – including Europe’s largest cancer treatment centre, built by the Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust.
Project leader Dr Ingunn Holen, from the University’s School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, said: “This method of treatment could quickly be incorporated into clinical practice.”
Pamela Goldberg, chief executive of Breast Cancer Campaign, which funded the research added: “We should quickly see the benefits, giving women the best possible chance of beating breast cancer.”
