Decoding how breast cancer begins

Principal Investigator:
Luke McCaffery, McGill University

• Ipshita Prakash, McGill University 
• Giuseppina Ursini-Siegel, McGill University 

Problem: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in female Canadians and its incidence is increasing. Doctors often detect early breast lesions, but a major challenge is identifying which are harmless and which will become cancer.

Solution: Dr McCaffrey and his colleagues will study the biological triggers that initiate breast cancer and allow lesions to progress. By identifying key signals, the researchers hope to improve breast cancer detection in people at higher risk, refine screening strategies and inform prevention efforts.

Impact: This research could lead to earlier detection of breast cancer in high-risk people, saving lives by ensuring timely treatment. It could also help people who don’t need treatment avoid unnecessary side effects. Understanding how breast cancer forms and progresses could also lead to new ways of preventing the disease.