'My tears could help people survive brain tumours'

'My tears could help people survive brain tumours'

A groundbreaking study is underway at the Manchester Cancer Research Centre that could potentially revolutionize the early detection of brain cancers. Alex Davies, a 49-year-old man with an incurable brain tumor, has generously donated his tears to support this research in the hopes of making a difference. Initially treated for epilepsy, scans later revealed the presence of a brain tumor, giving him a limited prognosis of 12 to 18 months to live.

Mr. Davies, who resides in Lostock, Bolton, underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy after experiencing seizures in 2023. While follow-up scans initially showed no signs of cancer, subsequent tests indicated tumor regrowth. Currently receiving palliative care at home, Mr. Davies remains optimistic that the study he is participating in will lead to earlier diagnoses and potentially save lives.

The research, funded by Stand Up To Cancer, aims to determine if tear fluid can identify glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain tumor. Prof Petra Hamerlik, who leads the project, emphasized the significance of this “liquid biopsy” approach, which could offer faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective methods for diagnosing brain cancer. If successful, the test may eventually be available in GP surgeries, enabling patients to receive timely diagnoses and better outcomes.

Both Mr. Davies and his wife, Emma, are hopeful that their contribution to this study could bring about significant improvements in the early detection of brain cancers, potentially changing the landscape for individuals facing similar challenges. With ongoing developments in tear-protein-based classifiers, the research team is diligently working towards creating a tool that can be widely implemented across healthcare services, offering hope for more timely diagnoses and improved patient outcomes

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