Every October, people across the UK wear pink ribbons to raise awareness about breast cancer. It’s a time to learn, support, and talk about new ways to help those affected. One exciting study that has been running in Aberdeen is called the SMALL Trial.
SMALL is a research study that is looking at two different ways to treat small and less agressive breast cancers found during routine breast screening. It is investigating whether the extent of surgical intervention can be further reduced.
A less invasive option, called vacuum-assisted excision (VAE), could work just as well for small and less agressive cancers. It’s already used for removing non-cancerous lumps. This minimally invasive procedure uses a special needle to remove the cancer without requiring surgery.
Over 800 women across 70 hospitals in the UK will take part in this trial. Some will have standard surgery, and others will have VAE. Researchers will then compare how well each treatment works, how many people need extra procedures, and how patients feel afterwards.
Why is this important? Because if VAE works as well as surgery, it could mean faster recovery, shorter and fewer stays in the hospital, good cosmetic effect and less complication risks for many women in the future.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s great to know that research like the SMALL Trial is helping to improve care. You can learn more about SMALL here: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/find-a-clinical-trial/this-trial-is-looking-at-vacuum-assisted-excision-for-breast-cancers-small
Our breast cancer research team has been named as one of the top 5 most rapidly recruiting sites for the SMALL Trial. This shows the dedication of our award winning breast cancer research unit. Well done!