One tell-tale sign of the development of cancer in a body tissue is hypoxia or the insufficient level of oxygen supply surrounding the affected tissue. A new diagnostic method for detecting this anomaly has recently been developed to detect possible cancer cells before they become aggressive.

The new diagnostic method will allow oncologists to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells very early in their development.

Scientists from the University of Manchester and Institute of Cancer Research in London have developed a technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting hypoxia in tissues.

The technique is called oxygen-enhanced MRI. This method can pinpoint cancerous tumors in their early development stage by detecting the low level of oxygen surrounding the affected tissues.

According to the research team's co-lead, Dr. Simon Robinson, the MRI technique will able to create an accurate map of the areas that are oxygen-deprived. These areas are likely sites of potential aggressive tumors.

Aggressive cancer cells are capable of resisting radiation therapy and chemotherapy. They can also easily spread or metastasize.

Using the new technique will allow oncologists to zero-in on the probable areas in the body wherein aggressive malignant tumors could develop. Early treatments can then be made to prevent the cancer cells from developing further.

Doctors who are treating cancer patients can carefully plan the treatment such as adjusting the precise amount of X-ray radiation to be administered to tumors.

The MRI technique will also allow doctors to accurately monitor the effectiveness of drug treatments. Early diagnosis and precise treatment will significantly help in saving the lives of cancer patients.