Only One-Third of Eligible Breast Cancer Patients Receive Gene Expression Test

A gene expression test can help breast cancer patients avoid unnecessary chemotherapy, yet its adoption remains limited despite insurance coverage. New research from the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Centre reveals that only about one in three eligible patients receives this valuable diagnostic test. The study, led by researcher Sabine Siesling, highlights a significant gap between test availability and actual clinical use. Gene expression testing allows doctors to better predict treatment response and personalize therapy plans. This underutilization means many patients may undergo chemotherapy they may not need, risking unnecessary side effects.