Multi-cancer blood tests show promise for earlier cancer detection

New research offers an exciting look at the future of cancer screening. A microsimulation study published in the American Cancer Society journal CANCER analyzed the potential impact of a Multi-Cancer Early Detection, or MCED, blood test—often referred to as a liquid biopsy.

The model projected that by incorporating annual MCED testing into standard care for adults aged 50–84, the U.S. could see a significant 45% reduction in stage four cancer diagnoses over a decade. This is crucial because standard screening is currently limited to only a few cancer types. This technology holds potential to detect many cancers that currently lack routine screening guidelines, such as pancreatic, ovarian, and liver cancers, thereby shifting diagnoses to earlier, more treatable stages.

In Nevada, where late-stage diagnosis remains a major challenge in reducing cancer mortality, widespread adoption of new, effective early detection methods like this could be a major step forward for improving survivorship across our communities and reducing the overall burden of cancer in the state.

Read the original research here

This article created with the assistance of AI and edited by NCC staff. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.