On 3-4 September, several television news programs reported Australian research linking the human papillomavirus (HPV) with breast cancer. HPV has been identified as a cause of the majority of cervical cancer cases and is the target of the Australian-discovered HPV vaccine.
Published in the British Journal of Cancer, the University of NSW research found HPV present in a small number of breast tissue samples and suggested that in the future, and with further research in the area, the HPV vaccine may have a role to play in the prevention of breast cancer.
NBOCC* comment
In recent years, our knowledge about risk factors for breast cancer has expanded significantly. However, the actual cause of breast cancer remains unknown.
This research examines whether HPV plays a causal role in the development of breast cancer. In this study, the researchers analysed 56 breast tissue samples and found HPV present in 39 per cent (five out of 13) of ductal carcinoma in situ samples and in 21 per cent (three out of 13) of invasive breast cancer samples.
However, as the researchers themselves note, a definitive conclusion on the association between HPV and breast cancer cannot be made due to the small size of the study. Consequently, there is currently no evidence that the HPV vaccine will protect against breast cancer.
Further research in this area will provide greater clarity around the potential role of HPV in the development of breast cancer.
Early detection remains the most important factor in breast cancer survival. It is important that women of all ages know the normal look and feel of their breasts and report any unusual changes to their doctor without delay and that women aged 50 years and over have a screening mammogram every two years. To make an appointment for a screening mammogram, call BreastScreen Australia on 13 20 50.
Click here for more information on the early detection of breast cancer.