Current developments in breast cancer

Interest in the prevention and early detection of breast cancer (BC) is increasing. Prevention studies are under way, and new data from mass screening trials are being evaluated. Improvement of the quality of mammography films and their proper interpretation are regarded as essential for effective early detection. With screening encompassing an increasing number of women, the rising proportion of suspicious breast findings had led to renewed efforts to improve the accuracy of cytologic diagnosis. Basic research continues to contribute to a better understanding of BC biology. Improved discrimination between subsets of patients with different prognosis is expected to optimize results of therapy in operable BC. Reports on taxol and suramin, new types of antitumoral drugs, as well as progress in monoclonal antibody therapy, may constitute preliminary steps towards novel therapeutic strategies.