The multivariate analysis showed that, despite the relevantly small number of patients fully characterised for all the established markers (Table 1), the telomere fusogenic mean was the most significant parameter for survival (P < 0.0001; HR = 8.1 (6.2–12.7)); no other parameters met the P < 0.05 level for entry into the model including age, Nottingham prognostic index, oestrogen receptor status, progesterone receptor status, tumour grade and HER2 status. This evidence concerns the gene ERBB2 and neoplasm.