Gene expression profile tests may be less cost effective in realworld, clinical settings than previously thought, according to a study published Jan. 8 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Oncotype DX (Genomic Health; Redwood City, Calif.) is the most commonly used, commercially available gene expression profile test and helps predict breast cancer recurrence. Under ideal, research protocols, the test was determined cost effective by current standards. However, this new study questions the test’s cost effectiveness when used in community practice. "As with all new technology, it’s important to assess real-world implementation to ensure what we’re offering patients is useful to them and doesn’t add to the societal and patient cost-burden, which is already very high in cancer care," said the study’s lead author, Young Chandler, Dr.P.H., from Georgetown University, in a statement. "As with all new technology, it’s important to assess real-world implementation to ensure what we’re offering patients is useful to them and doesn’t add to the societal and patient costburden, which is already very high in cancer care." —Young Chandler, Dr.P.H. Oncotype DX examines the activity of 21 genes in a patient’s breast tumor tissue to predict the benefit of chemotherapy based on the risk of cancer recurrence. […]