In Piedmont it will be possible to carry out genomic testing for hormone-responsive breast cancer early stage, paid by the health service. This was established by the Council resolution approved today, on the proposal of the councilor for Health, Luigi Icardi, which acknowledges and implements the indications of the Decree of the Minister of Health of 18 May 2021.
The breast cancer represents an important public health problem: in Italy in 2020 nearly 55,000 cases were estimated in the female population, 30% of all forms. Also in our region the latest available data are aligned on these numbers, with about 4,500 cases.
The genomic test allows to identify the individual biology of the tumor by providing information regarding aggression at an early stage, as well as its ability to grow and spread. Molecular multigene tests are able to provide useful information to prevent adjuvant overtreatment in over 50% of cases and above all the toxicity risks associated with chemotherapy. They are important in defining the most appropriate therapy for patients and represent a step towards personalized medicine.
The president of the Region Alberto Cirio and the councilor for health Luigi Icardi they point out the importance of genomic testing for early prevention, which has long been one of the priorities, with specific screening programs that are “particularly useful for identifying the disease. Promoting the quality of cancer care and research and innovation are among the objectives of the new oncology network established in July, with a new organizational and functional model that places the patient more and more at the center “.
The resolution provides that they will be over 800 patients per year who will be able to access genomic tests: the expected costs are 1 million and 600 thousand euros, financed by the Ministry of Health. The tests will be prescribed by the Breast Units present in the area, while the test execution centers will be identified by the Board with an upcoming administrative provision.