4th January 2012 January 4, 2012
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Bone marrow cancer gene clues found
A gene defect increases the risk of a type of bone marrow cancer by 30%, the Daily Mail reported.
The news is based on an examination of people with multiple myeloma, a relatively rare type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow and can go on to damage the bones. By comparing the genetics of people with and without the disease, researchers found two genetic variations that were more common in people with multiple myeloma. These variations were associated with a 30% increase in the overall risk of a person developing multiple myeloma. Although it has long been known that relatives of multiple myeloma patients have a greater risk of the disease, this is reportedly the first study to identify genetic variations that are linked to it.
Although researchers identified these genetic variations, it is still unclear why they might increase the risk of multiple myeloma. Further work will be needed before these findings can help us understand more about the disease. It is likely to take considerable time before we know if the discovery can lead to new treatments. Also, not everyone carrying the genetic mutations will get myeloma, and not everyone with myeloma will carry these mutations.
Consultation on a revised version of the Cancer of Unknown Primary Measures
A draft version of the Cancer of Unknown Primary Measures for inclusion in the Manual for Cancer Services has been issued for a 12 week consultation period ending 14 March 2012. This consultation is aimed at interested stakeholders only.
