Breast cancer research in Asia: adopt or adapt Western knowledge?

摘要: Abstract The incidence and mortality of breast cancer continues to rise rapidly in Asian countries. However, most our current knowledge on has been generated Western populations. As the socio-economic profile, life style culture women are substantially different, genetic backgrounds vary some extent, we need answer question whether ‘adopt’ or ‘adapt’ before applying it setting. It is generally accepted that risk factors, which have mainly studied populations similar worldwide. presence gene–environment gene–gene interactions may alter their importance as causal factors across Diagnostic prognostic study findings, including prediction rules, increasingly shown be ‘setting specific’ must therefore validated implementing them clinical care Asia. Interventional research findings from Caucasian patients not applicable Asia due differences tumour biology/profiles, metabolism drugs also health beliefs can influence treatment acceptance adherence. While warranted all domains medical research, felt for patients, needs highest diagnostic studies. International trials meanwhile include various settings provide an insight into effectiveness new modalities this part world.