Prostate Cancer Risk may be Determined by Gene Sequencing Technologies

Researchers from the Institute of Cancer Research in the United Kingdom believe that genetic sequencing may hold a better option to help doctors predict early indicators of prostate cancer--a type of cancer that can be particularly difficult to catch early on.

The researchers used advancing DNA sequencing technologies to assess 22 different known cancer genes simultaneously. They were also able to highlight genetic markers in men who could be at a higher risk for developing prostate cancer.

Results showed 13 mutations in eight specific genes that were accurate markers to test the risk of developing the cancer.  

Though early detection of the cancer may not save a patient, the new knowledge can help with picking appropriate treatments and medical plans of action to fight the health issue.

What do you think?

More information regarding the study will be published for release in the March issue of the British Journal of Cancer.