AN appeal has been launched to find more than 100,000 women to take part in a 10-year study to pinpoint the causes of breast cancer.

Charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer and The Institute of Cancer Research hope that the Breakthrough Generations Study will lead to a better understanding of the causes of the disease, which kills 13,000 women each year.

Celebrities including actress Michelle Collins, opera singer Lesley Garrett and TV presenter Tara Palmer-Tomkinson are expected to take part and they have called for more women to join the study.

Around 40,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Britain each year. Scientists believe that around half of these cases could be prevented if the causes of the disease were better understood.

The study will examine genetic, environmental, behavioural and hormonal factors. Each woman will give a blood sample and provide information about their lifestyles and their health will then be followed.

Women aged 18 and over from who are interested in taking part can call 0870 242 4485 or visit www.breakthroughgenerations.org.uk.