At the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium held in San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Justin Drake presented discussions on the urgent need for supplemental breast cancer screening methods. He emphasized that traditional mammography, while the standard screening approach, often lacks sensitivity, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. This limitation creates significant gaps in effective screening that emerging blood-based technologies, such as the Certitude Breast test from Astrin Bioscience, aim to address.
Dr. Drake explained that the Certitude Breast test represents a non-imaging, proteomics-driven solution designed to enhance early detection and improve access to screening for women at risk. This innovative test could provide a vital alternative for those with inconclusive or negative mammograms, especially for women with dense breasts, who may not receive adequate evaluations through standard methods.
Addressing Access Challenges in Breast Cancer Screening
Dr. Drake highlighted an alarming statistic: over **10%** of counties in the United States lack adequate mammography facilities, which translates to more than **10 million women** facing challenges in accessing proper breast cancer screening. He stressed that the Certitude Breast test could serve as a convenient screening option, leveraging a simple blood test to help rule out cancer in women who might otherwise be unable to obtain timely evaluations.
During the symposium, Dr. Drake stated, “We recommend all women to still get their mammograms. This supplemental screening option could be a great choice for women with inconclusive or negative mammograms, especially those with dense breasts.” He reiterated that the Certitude Breast test is not intended to replace mammograms but rather to complement existing screening protocols.
Future Steps for Validation and Implementation
As the Certitude Breast test gains traction, Dr. Drake outlined the necessary steps for further validation and integration into clinical practice. Currently, the test is supported by a case-controlled study of **300 women**, with a larger biobank study involving **1,250 women** presenting promising results in sensitivity and specificity.
Looking ahead, Dr. Drake mentioned ongoing collaborative research efforts with reputable institutions such as the **Mayo Clinic** and the **University of Pittsburgh Medical Center**. These prospective trials aim to compare the Certitude Breast test directly with traditional imaging methods such as MRI and contrast-enhanced mammography. Additionally, a pre-biopsy study is underway to evaluate the test’s effectiveness in distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions, which could help reduce unnecessary biopsies for many women.
As pharmacists increasingly play a role in patient education and navigation of these new screening options, Dr. Drake expressed optimism about their contributions, particularly in underserved populations where access to specialty imaging is limited.
The developments surrounding the Certitude Breast test signal a significant step forward in breast cancer screening, potentially transforming how women with dense breasts or inconclusive mammograms are assessed and treated. With continued research and validation, this innovative blood test could become a key tool in bridging the gaps in breast cancer screening access.
