A test able to predict the likely success of chemotherapy and the risk of recurrence will be widely available in England from April 2015.
NHS hospital trusts will be able to sign up to an access scheme from April 2015 to offer a multi-gene Oncotype DX test designed to reduce over-treatment and unnecessary costs for the healthcare system.
"The improved access to a test that allows for a better understanding of individual tumour biology is an important step forward to personalised care for UK breast cancer patients," said Nigel Bundred, professor in surgical oncology at the University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust.
"Having this knowledge can give us greater confidence in recommending a treatment plan best suited for an individual patient that decreases the complications of treatment without compromising survival."
