RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Breast Cancer BRAs Study (Breast Cancer Biomechanics of Radiotherapy And Surgery)

The BRAs study (Breast Cancer Biomechanics of Radiotherapy And Surgery) wants to understand how surgery and radiotherapy for breast cancer change the way a woman's breast moves and feels. These changes are called breast biomechanics. Researchers already know that correct bra support can make a big difference to comfort and quality of life for healthy women and athletes. This study will involve women who have had breast cancer surgery, with or without radiotherapy. They will visit a special lab for 3D scans and sensor measurements of their breast movement. Participants will also be asked about their bra needs and exercise habits. The findings could lead to better bra designs for women after breast cancer treatment, helping them feel more comfortable and happier with their results.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

06 Feb 2025

Estimated completion

31 Jan 2026

Breast Cancer Patients

What is this study about?

Breast cancer is a common condition, affecting over 56,000 women each year in the UK. Many women receive surgery, and sometimes radiotherapy, as part of their treatment. While these treatments are vital, they can sometimes change the way the breast tissue moves and feels. Doctors call this 'breast biomechanics'. We already know that how a breast moves can affect the type of bra support a woman needs, which in turn can improve comfort and overall well-being.

This study, run by Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust and the University of Portsmouth, aims to look closely at these changes in women who have been treated for breast cancer. Up until now, most research on breast movement has focused on healthy women or athletes. This study is important because it will give us new information about how breast cancer treatments affect breast biomechanics and what this might mean for women's comfort and support needs.

The information gathered from this study could be very helpful in the future. It might lead to designing better bras specifically for women who have had breast cancer treatment. It could also help women and their doctors make more informed decisions about treatment, as they would have a better understanding of how breast movement might be different afterwards. Ultimately, this could help women feel more satisfied with their treatment outcomes and improve their quality of life.

Key takeaways

Researchers are studying how breast cancer treatments affect breast movement and feel.
The goal is to design better bras for women after breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy.
Participation involves visiting a lab for 3D measurements and answering questions.
Your contribution could improve comfort and quality of life for future patients.
It's voluntary and you can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women aged 18 or older who have been treated for breast cancer affecting one breast. You might have had surgery alone, or surgery followed by radiotherapy. You would need to be able to travel to the University of Portsmouth for a visit.

There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your breast cancer has spread to other parts of your body (metastatic breast cancer), if you've had surgery within the last two weeks, or radiotherapy within the last four weeks. Also, if you have an infection in your breast, or are currently pregnant or breastfeeding, you wouldn't be able to take part. If you have epilepsy, or need an interpreter, this study wouldn't be suitable.

If you've had previous breast surgery on your other, unaffected breast, or have breast cancer in both breasts, you also wouldn't be able to participate. The study also cannot include those who have a high frailty score, meaning they need help to move around.

Quick self-check

Are you a woman aged 18 or older?
Have you had surgery for breast cancer on one breast (with or without radiotherapy)?
Have you finished your surgery at least 2 weeks ago, and radiotherapy at least 4 weeks ago?
Can you travel to the University of Portsmouth?
Do you feel well enough and understand what's involved to give your consent?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will need to visit a special laboratory at the University of Portsmouth. This visit will take place after your surgery and/or after your radiotherapy. There is also an option to visit before your surgery, if that's possible for you. During your visit, researchers will use 3D scanners and small sensors to measure the shape and movement of your breast.

You will also be asked some questions about your thoughts on the testing methods themselves. In addition, you'll be asked about your bra needs and exercise habits, both before and after your breast cancer treatment. The researchers are interested in your experiences and preferences. There are no medications involved, and the total duration involves your visit(s) to the lab.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help future women who have had breast cancer to feel more comfortable and find better bra support. While there aren't direct benefits to you personally, your contribution will provide valuable information. Possible risks are very low; the 3D scanner uses a strobe light, so if you have epilepsy, you would not be able to participate. You will also need to travel to the university, which might involve some inconvenience. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and without affecting your future care.

Locations (1)

Queen Alexandra Hospital
Portsmouth, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is breast biomechanics?

It's a medical term for how your breast tissue moves, stretches, and feels, which can be affected by surgery or radiotherapy.

Will this study help me directly?

While it might not directly change your current treatment, your involvement will help scientists learn more and could lead to better bras for women with breast cancer in the future.

What will happen at the University visit?

You'll have your breast measured using special 3D scans and small sensors, and you'll answer questions about your bras and exercise.

Do I have to do anything before surgery?

No, it's optional. The main visits are after your surgery and/or radiotherapy.

Can I stop being part of the study if I change my mind?

Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any point, and it won't affect your medical care.

How to find out more

Amy Huseyin

Amyrose.Huseyin@porthosp.nhs.uk 02392 286000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.