How Tumour Markers Help in Breast Cancer Awareness & Care

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide but early detection and ongoing monitoring can make a lifesaving difference. Thanks to advancing science, we now have more ways than ever to track what’s happening in the body. One of these tools is the tumour marker blood test. A simple blood test that can offer powerful insights when used alongside scans and other checks.

Fortress Clinical Laboratories offers a high-quality panel of tumour marker tests that can support earlier intervention, more personalised care, and peace of mind. If you or a loved one are concerned about breast cancer or are undergoing treatment, ask your GP whether these tests could be right for you.

What are tumour markers – and why do they matter?

Tumour markers are proteins that may be released into the blood by cancer cells or the body’s own response to cancer. They don’t replace mammograms or biopsies, but they can help doctors see:

– Whether cancer might be present and should be investigated further

– How well treatment is working

– Whether the cancer has returned after treatment

Because not all cancers release these markers and other conditions can affect results,they work best as part of a bigger picture, alongside other diagnostic tools. Still, they can play a crucial role in breast cancer care.

Ask your GP about Fortress Clinical’s Tumour Marker Panel

Fortress Clinical Laboratories offers a trusted range of tumour marker tests used by healthcare professionals worldwide. For breast cancer, these include:

– CA 15‑3 – One of the most important markers in breast cancer. It can help monitor how treatment is working and
detect recurrence.

– CA‑125 – While better known in ovarian cancer, this marker can also rise in some types of breast cancer, especially in
later stages.

– CA 19‑9 – Helpful in broader cancer screening and identifying other cancers that may present with similar symptoms.

These tests are carried out through a simple blood sample and are analysed using Fortress’s precise, laboratory-verified methods with strict quality controls.

When can these tests help?

Here are some ways these tests may support your care:

1. Before treatment begins – to create a baseline and understand if markers are elevated

2. During treatment – to monitor how well your body is responding

3. After treatment – to check for signs of recurrence

4. Alongside scans and exams – to build a more complete picture of your health

If you’ve previously had elevated markers, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to track your progress over time.

Important to know: These tests are helpful – but not standalone.

While tumour markers can offer valuable insight, they:

– May not rise in all breast cancer types

– It can sometimes be elevated for non-cancer reasons (like inflammation or hormonal changes)

– Should always be interpreted by your doctor within the context of other results

That’s why asking your GP for trusted laboratory testing like that offered by Fortress Clinical is key to getting accurate,
meaningful results.

What to ask your GP

Not sure how to start the conversation? Here are some questions you can ask:

✅ Can I have a tumour marker blood test as part of my breast cancer screening or monitoring?
✅ Are you able to request tests from Fortress Clinical Laboratories?
✅ Which markers will you test (e.g., CA 15-3, CA 125)?
✅ How often should I be tested?
✅ How will these results be used in my care plan?

You’re entitled to understand and take part in decisions about your health—and the right questions can lead to better, more personalised care.

Breast Cancer Awareness is about action.

Awareness is the first step – but taking action is what saves lives. Whether that’s attending your routine mammogram, checking for lumps regularly, or having a simple blood test, early steps lead to better outcomes.

Fortress Clinical Laboratories is proud to offer tools that support doctors and empower patients in their journey, but it starts with you asking the question.

Take charge. Ask your GP.

If you’re going through breast cancer treatment, in recovery, or simply want extra reassurance, ask your GP if Fortress Clinical’s tumour marker panel is appropriate for you.

Together, we can catch things earlier, monitor more effectively, and make informed choices every step of the way.