7th January 2026
Health Technology Wales: Publication of guidance on MAF-gene tests to guide adjuvant bisphosphonate treatment in breast cancer
Health Technology Wales has published new guidance on the use of MAF-gene tests to guide adjuvant bisphosphonate treatment in breast cancer.
Bisphosphonates are a type of medication prescribed following treatment for early-stage breast cancer. The medication is taken to protect bones from thinning or to prevent cancer from returning. It is known as an adjuvant treatment. Side effects of the medication can include mild sickness, indigestion, flu-like symptoms and on occasion deterioration of the bones in the jaw, known as osteonecrosis of the jaw.
A test for the MAF gene can determine if a patient can be prescribed bisphosphonate treatment. This is because the presence of the MAF gene has been linked to patients who have experienced bone deterioration after receiving bisphosphonate treatment.
According to the guidance there is insufficient evidence to support the routine adoption of MAF gene testing to guide adjuvant bisphosphonate treatment in early breast cancer.
HTW’s guidance states that further research is recommended to evaluate the use of MAF testing to guide bisphosphonate use.