IT is one of the ironies of our existence that research into weapons technology can often lead to peaceful applications that bring great benefits for Mankind.

There are many examples. Back in the days of the caves, the hunting bow led to the first stringed instruments.

Anaesthetics were pioneered during the American Civil War and air travel would never have taken off had it not been for the Second World War bomber.

It would appear that the process is continuing - thanks to defence technology company QinetiQ, a firm we're proud to say has strong links with Worcestershire.

Their scientists have devised a ground-breaking technology that analyses tissue samples in order to grade breast cancer.

It has the potential to provide accurate prognosis, reduce hospital waiting lists and ease pressures caused by a worldwide shortage of pathologists.

This newspaper asks you to pause for a moment and consider the implications of this.

We know that early diagnosis is crucial in the fight against most cancers. Fast responses can often save lives.

For breast cancer is no longer the automatic death sentence it once was. Medical progress has given hope to untold thousands of women.

But just imagine where this revolutionary method could lead. Is it really too fanciful to look forward to the day when this distressing illness joins all the other eradicated diseases in the hospital incinerator of history?