The EFTA Research Project 2008- 2010: Molecular early detection of breast, cervical and colon cancer.

This project includes both medical scientific research and the assessment of new diagnostic technologies which aim to detect certain illnesses at the earliest possible stages. The outcomes will benefit the local population and on a broader scale, improve quality of life by touching the human family.

The Panagia Philanthropini Center, in cooperation with a high caliber scientific team from the U.S., designed this program of cutting-edge scientific studies to combat cancer. The project’s success will provide the means to drastically reduce mortality rates through the earliest possible diagnosis of pre-cancerous conditions.

The program is comprised of three studies based on various research methods:

I. Research for the development of FT-IR Spectroscopy and DNA HPV screening for cervical cancer early detection.

This study aims for the earliest possible detection of cervical cancer at the initial pre-cancerous and cancerous cell stages. When caught early with these technologies, diagnosis of cervical cancer at later stages can be prevented. Furthermore, when used in conjunction with the Papanikolaou (Pap) test, cervical cancer could be rendered curable.

ΙΙ. Research for genetic carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations for inherited breast and ovarian cancer.

Through DNA examination, this study aims to verify the existence of BRCA1 and 2 mutations known to be responsible for the occurrence of inherited breast and ovarian cancer. This novel method of cancer diagnosis will identify patients that have a very high risk of developing cancer. Patients that test positive can then be closely followed up and screened more frequently in order to arrest the disease at the earliest clinical stage possible.

ΙΙΙ. Research and study of a novel molecular biomarker and new chemo-preventive agents for colon cancer and the development of a biological Database.

This study aims for the earliest possible diagnosis of colon cancer by utilizing a novel biomarker for pre-cancerous states and an innovative and safe substance for disease treatment, all on the molecular level. Early detection and treatment seeks to reduce the burden placed on patients while also improving their health outcomes.

The EFTA support of the above scientific proposal constitutes a major beneficial contribution by the Financial Instrument to world health in general and most especially the fight against cancer.