The media (in all forms) were quick to report that a saliva test to check for certain proteins that are present in patients suffering with breast cancer is being developed in the USA. This is very exciting news as it will make diagnosis quicker, easier and crucially, earlier.
What the news reports were less clear on was the likely time scale for this test to become readily available. The research group involved are just looking to begin second stage clinical testing with a 2 year study planned. They hope to receive FDA approval within 5 years, meaning that realistically we have at least 6 years to wait before it becomes available, with no indication, as yet, on cost.
Hopefully the tests will live up to expectation and if it does I PROMISE that StoneRock will be actively looking into providing this for our patients but it is going to be a very long time before something like this becomes routine. In the meantime the advise from doctors is for patients to continue with their usual regular self examination and seek immediate help if they discover a lump or are concerned about something.
