Detecting the risk of breast cancer before it develops - with a simple smear test?

Three new studies, one clear goal: to rethink the early detection and prevention of breast cancer – individually, precisely and non-invasively.

The research led by Prof. Martin Widschwendter’s team shows how epigenetic markers in a simple mouth swab can provide information about an individual’s risk – long before symptoms appear.

From theory to application: a new test for practice

The focus is on the so-called WID-BC score, developed on the basis of over 1,100 epigenetic profiles from buccal mucosa, cervical and blood samples.

The results, published in Nature Communications, are promising: buccal mucosa samples provide clear epigenetic signals that correlate with breast cancer risk – measurable by a simple, painless swab.

But the test is just the first step in a larger vision.

1. recognize risk: The smear test as a molecular early warning system

The first paper shows that epigenetic markers in oral swabs reflect the biology of breast tissue with astonishing precision. It is not the tumor material itself that is recorded – but biological signatures that develop over years and decades.

Epigenetics as a memory of our life history.
Nutrition, hormonal influences, stress – all of these leave molecular traces that can be detected in the smear test.

This finding is based on the Systemic Lifetime Effect Hypothesis, vividly visualized in the article image (see above) by co-author Bente Theeuwes.

2. understanding the connections: Ageing and tissue at risk

The second study, published in Communications Medicine, shows: Not all tissues age in the same way – and it is precisely these differences that could explain why certain organs are more susceptible to cancer.

What is particularly exciting is that the epigenetic ageing processes in the buccal mucosa are similar to those in breast tissue – further proof that the swab is more than just a practical sample.

It is a functional mirror of biological processes in the target organ.

3. make prevention measurable: Making interventions visible

The third publication goes one step further – and shows the potential of the method for personalized prevention. A preclinical study with mifepristone, a selective progesterone receptor antagonist, was able to demonstrate the potential of this method for personalized prevention:

The substance significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Their effect can be measured via epigenetic markers in the smear.

What previously remained invisible – namely the success of preventive measures – can now be objectively verified for the first time thanks to epigenetics.

Vision: Precision prevention for every woman

Together, the three studies show a new picture of early detection:

Non-invasive: A simple swab is sufficient.
Systemic: The markers integrate biological processes over years.
Customizable: Every woman can know her own risk profile – and take targeted action.
Monitorable: prevention measures are finally measurable.