Christy Carlson Romano, known for her role in “Even Stevens,” has openly discussed a recent health scare. In a heartfelt video shared on February 17, she revealed that she and her husband, Brendan Rooney, underwent preventive cancer screenings due to a family history of the disease.
Romano expressed her emotional state, saying, “My husband was completely negative. I wasn’t negative,” highlighting that her results indicate the possibility of “stageable cancer.”
She described the news as “unbelievable” but also clarified that it wasn’t a formal diagnosis yet.
Currently, Romano is set to undergo a PET scan, which uses small amounts of radioactive material for specialized imaging to look for signs of cancer or heart disease.
In the video’s caption, she wrote, “I hope the treatment is easy. I’m nervous and a little scared (who isn’t scared?)”
Romano admitted she hesitated to share this news for fear of being misjudged. However, she emphasized that it’s “my duty” to bring awareness and encourage others to get tested.
So, what tests might she have undergone and how serious is a positive result?
The newspaper sought insights from medical professionals, specifically Dr. Elias Obeid from Hackensack Meridian’s John Theurer Cancer Center, to clarify her situation.
Potential Tests Romano Could Have Taken
While Romano didn’t specify the exact test, a promising option gaining traction is the Multiple Cancer Detection (MCD) blood test. It’s intended to catch early signs of cancer before symptoms manifest.
These advanced tests search for cancer “signals” circulating in the bloodstream. Dr. Obeid explained that if detected, it implies “there is a high probability that cancer is present.”
How the MCD Test Functions
The process starts with a routine blood draw, followed by an analysis for small pieces of genetic material known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).
Obeid elaborated, “DNA normally resides within our cells, but when cells die, DNA is released into the bloodstream. The DNA released by tumors is known as ctDNA, which is strongly linked to active cancer.”
Insights from the MCD Test
The insights from the MCD test vary based on the specific version used. Some aim to pinpoint the source of cancer signals, while others might only indicate that cancer signals are present.
However, Dr. Obeid cautioned that predictions aren’t always accurate, and some cancers may not show results due to factors like their location or stage.
Limitations of the MCD Test
It’s crucial to understand that this is a screening test and isn’t definitive for a cancer diagnosis, according to Dr. Obeid. Some tumors escape detection, especially brain tumors due to the blood-brain barrier that inhibits tumor DNA from entering the bloodstream.
“Early-stage cancers might also not produce enough DNA detectable in tests,” he added, noting that about half of all positive results can be false positives. Thus, he emphasized that the test shouldn’t replace regular screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies, but rather complement them.
Who Should Consider an MCD Test?
Typically aimed at adults over 50, Dr. Obeid explained that this is due to an increased cancer risk with age. However, anyone over 21 can take it, particularly those at high risk due to family history or genetic factors.
Conversely, it’s not suggested for pregnant individuals, those under 21, or anyone recently diagnosed with cancer. Consulting a provider knowledgeable in MCD testing is essential.
What to Do If Your Test Result is Positive?
Dr. Obeid noted that while it’s natural to feel anxious about a positive result, it should be seen as a starting point. This information sparks necessary action.
If the initial tests don’t identify the signal source, a broader imaging scan may be recommended. If a source is indicated, follow-up could involve specific imaging, further tests, or specialist referrals.
Currently, Romano is awaiting her PET scan and hopes for positive news.
Dr. Obeid emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare and Romano’s awareness of her family’s cancer history, which drives her commitment to aggressive screening for early detection.
