Dr Mark Powell
Research Manager, Against Breast Cancer
It’s estimated that almost 60,000 people in the UK are living with secondary or metastatic breast cancer,1 where cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.
A gainst Breast Cancer funds vital research towards the prevention, earlier detection and better treatment of secondary spread, or metastatic breast cancer.2 There is currently no cure, although better treatments mean many live healthy lives long after their initial breast cancer diagnosis. But sadly, breast cancer claims the lives of over 11,500 people every year in the UK.3
Better screening and earlier detection methods are needed
Breast mammogram screening is offered by the NHS to women between 50 and 70 and looks for early signs of breast cancer. However, about a third or 1 million eligible women do not take up the mammogram invite.4 Better awareness about the importance of mammogram screening is needed.
To support mammogram screening, current research is focused on improving imaging and blood tests for early detection.
Against Breast Cancer funding supported the development of a multiple early cancer testing at the University of Southampton.2 The test, called miONCO-Dx, can detect 12 of the most common cancers, including breast, at an early stage with high sensitivity. Further development of the test is ongoing at Xgenera with help from a NIHR (National Institute of Health and Care Research) grant.
With breast cancer rates predicted
to rise, research must continue.
Breast cancer prevention
It’s estimated that 23% (about 13,000) of new breast cancer cases each year in the UK are preventable with better diet and lifestyle habits.3 Against Breast Cancer researchers are finding links between obesity and increased risk, while other studies show that physical exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer.5
Improved therapies
With breast cancer rates predicted to rise, research must continue — better treatments are needed to improve the outcomes and quality of life for patients. Charities and their supporters are working hard to fund cutting-edge research at leading UK Universities performed by world-leading scientists. Together, we can strive towards a future where no one loses their life to breast cancer.
1. Palmieri C, et al. 2022. Estimated Prevalence of Metastatic Breast Cancer in England, 2016-2021. JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(12):e2248069.
2. www.againstbreastcancer.org.uk
3. Cancer Research UK. 2025 Breast Cancer Statistics.
4. NHS England. 2024. New breast cancer screening figures prompt fresh uptake appeal.
5. Timms et.al. 2024. International pooled analysis of leisure-time physical activity and premenopausal breast cancer in women from 19 cohorts. J.Clinical Oncology.
