torture
could be used against them.
A major international study of cancer has identified dozens of genetic markers that could help to improve testing for people at risk of developing the disease. Experts say the findings could lead to a simple new predictive test within several years. Here’s our health correspondent Branwen Jeffreys.
This research project by the University of Cambridge and Institute of Cancer Research looked at the DNA, the genetic code of more than 100,000 people with cancer. That was compared with the DNA from a similar number of people from the general population. The scientists were able to
identify
variations which appeared repeatedly among the cancer patients. The research has significantly increased the overall number of known genetic markers for breast, ovarian and prostate cancer.
Colombia’s main rebel group, the Farc, has said that it will not accept any peace agreement that involves its members going to jail. The left-wing rebels branded as naive and cynical government suggestions that the Farc should end its armed activity in exchange for government positions, seats in Congress and prison sentences. The group has been holding peace talks with the government since November to end a conflict which has lasted nearly five decades.
The White House says it’s closely monitoring a hunger strike by a growing number of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. According to military officials, 31 of the camp’s inmates are currently on hunger strike. Human rights groups say the action, which began in early February, reflects growing frustration on the part of the prisoners about their indefinite detention. Some of them are being fed liquid food through tubes.