New study on breast cancer brings a lot of hope

A new breast cancer study brings with it a lot of hope but not immediate results.

The study took a look at breast cancer at the genetic level. It mapped the origins of the disease by analyzing tumors from hundreds of patients. And it should give doctors better information when it comes to understanding how a cancer will act. It also lead to new treatments.

"It is like a map that has all the cities and villages and the towns, but doesn't have all the roads, the bridges and the stop signs," said Dr. Larry Norton. "So, there's a lot that we have to do to connect the dots."

For now, breast cancer patients will have to wait for clinical trials and possibly dozens of drug studies before new drugs become available. A process that can take 10 years or more.