'Mouth swab' test for cancer clue

The test will look for a number of genetic variations

Scientists say they have devised a mouth swab test which could provide insight into your genetic risk of developing breast cancer.

The £700 private test claims to combine genetic factors with lifestyle information to understand risk.

The company BreastHealth UK says it could increase survival for high-risk women while preventing unnecessary screening for the low risk.

But cancer charities warn genes may only account for a minority of cases.

The test - dubbed deCODE - looks at seven variations of genes associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, while the woman will also be questioned on her lifestyle and family history.

Patients deemed to be at higher risk would be offered more intensive screening, and possibly even preventative chemotherapy like taking tamoxifen, said Professor Gordon Wishart, medical director of Breast Health UK.

"Decisions will be made in consultation with an experienced breast surgeon and patients will have access to a genetic counsellor where necessary."

Testing times

Genetic testing for cancer is still in its infancy, but scientists have known for some time that certain genetic mutations can significantly increase the risk.

Breast cancer is a complex disease and we don't yet know all the factors that can affect a woman's risk of developing it Dr Sarah Cant Breakthrough Breast Cancer

Currently, doctors primarily test for four genes, BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53 and PTEN, as these are associated with high risks of developing breast cancer.

This month, the first baby to have been screened for BRCA1 was born in London.

Faulty genes are currently believed to account for between five and 10% of all breast cancer cases in the UK which total 44,000 a year.

"Recent research has shown that there are a number of lesser genes which may also affect an individual's risk," said Jackie Harris, clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Care.

"What we don't know is exactly how or why these lesser genes cause breast cancer."

The new test - combined with clinical trials - could further our understanding of this, she added, but stressed the NHS already offered a risk assessment service to those with a family history of breast cancer.

Dr Sarah Cant, Policy Manager at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: "Breast cancer is a complex disease and we don't yet know all the factors that can affect a woman's risk of developing it.

"Large scale, long term studies are needed to evaluate whether genetic tests like deCODE BreastCancer can provide useful information about breast cancer risk.

"For most women, getting older is their biggest breast cancer risk factor, which is why all women aged 50 and over should attend their NHS breast screening appointments when invited."