Bengaluru: Every October, the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international health campaign dedicated to promoting screening, education, and support for those affected by the disease.

The month, recognised by its symbolic pink theme, focuses on encouraging women to undergo regular breast cancer screening—starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on risk factors.

It also raises funds for research and provides care for those diagnosed, including patients with metastatic breast cancer.

The campaign puts a spotlight on specific days throughout the month to raise awareness for particular groups within the breast cancer community, uniting patients, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare providers in the global fight against the disease that affects 2.3 million women worldwide.

“Cancer Care Is Now a Journey of Resilience and Precision”

Speaking to Mathrubhumi, Dr Monika Pansari, Consultant – Breast and Gynaecology Onco-surgery (Surgical Oncology) and Robotic Surgery at Manipal Hospital, Kanakapura Road, emphasises that the future of breast cancer treatment lies in Precision Oncology, powered by liquid biopsies and personalised genomics.

“With newer advances, cancer care has definitely reached a point where it is no longer a threat to life, but a journey that requires resilience and care,” said Dr Pansari. “Advances in therapies as well as diagnostics have given it a newer title called Precision Oncology.”

Liquid Biopsies: A Simple Blood Test with Transformative Potential

Explaining one of the most significant breakthroughs, Dr Pansari said, “A liquid biopsy is a very simple blood test that is less invasive than regular biopsies. It can detect circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) or cells that have entered the bloodstream and can be done repeatedly to monitor disease progression and treatment responsiveness.”

According to studies published in Nature Medicine (2023) and JAMA Oncology (2022), ctDNA testing can identify minimal residual disease months before radiological relapse, enabling earlier intervention and improved outcomes.

Personalised Genomics: Tailoring Treatment to Every Patient

Complementing liquid biopsy is the field of personalised genomics, which helps doctors design treatment plans based on the genetic makeup of each tumour. “Personalised genomics uses genetic sequencing to pinpoint specific mutations, gene amplifications, or molecular pathways of cancer,” Dr Pansari explained.

Using next-generation sequencing (NGS), oncologists can now match patients with targeted therapies, such as PIK3CA inhibitors or PARP inhibitors, chosen according to the unique molecular profile of their cancer.

“This is a dynamic, data-driven approach,” she added. “We can use both liquid biopsy and genomic data to continue monitoring tumours, adopt newer therapies and adjust doses as cancers evolve, leading to improved survival rates, lower toxicity, and personalised breast cancer management.”

A Future of Hope and Precision

As the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, experts like Dr Pansari highlight that the conversation is shifting—from fear and uncertainty to empowerment and precision.

With innovations in molecular testing and targeted therapy, breast cancer care is increasingly becoming about personalised healing, ensuring that every patient receives treatment that is as unique as their disease.