Can be detected with a simple blood test colorectal cancer (CRC) is more than 80% accurate, according to a new study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington.
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved approximately 8,000 participants between the ages of 45 and 84, a press release said.
The results of the SHIELD blood test, made by the Palo Alto, Calif., pharmaceutical company Guardant, were compared to the results of a colonoscopy. The latter is considered the “gold standard for colorectal cancer screening.” said the release.
What is colorectal cancer? Signs, symptoms, risks and more of a global health concern
Among participants who had a confirmed case of colorectal cancer through colonoscopy, just over 83% had a positive blood test and 16.9% had a negative test.
The SHIELD test works by detecting the following symptoms: colorectal cancer It is extracted from DNA released by tumors, called circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).
A simple blood test may be able to detect colorectal cancer (CRC) with more than 80% accuracy, according to new research from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington. (St. Petersburg)
The test performed best at detecting colorectal cancer, but was less effective at detecting precancerous lesions, the researchers found.
The SHIELD blood test is intended to be used as a colorectal cancer screening for “average risk” people with no symptoms, said study co-author and gastroenterologist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Washington. William M. Grady, MD, points out.
Cancer and Princess Kate: Why was Kate Middleton diagnosed?
“The accuracy rate for colorectal cancer is comparable to home stool tests used for early detection of colorectal cancer,” Grady told FOX News Digital.
He acknowledged that the study has some limitations.
“The research is finished. [among] “They are average risk people and this test is aimed at them,” he said.
A new blood test is intended to be used as a colorectal cancer screen for people who are at “average risk” and are not experiencing symptoms. (St. Petersburg)
This test is not currently intended for use in people at high risk, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of colorectal cancer, or a history of colorectal cancer. inflammatory bowel diseasehe revealed.
Colorectal cancer status
Colorectal cancer is the second most deadly cancer in the United States
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 53,010 lives are expected to be lost in 2024.
The ACS recommends that people at average risk should begin regular testing at age 45.
Newly approved cancer drug targets progressive ‘deadly disease’
“Colorectal cancer is largely preventable, and screening tests are now available that can prevent colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, FIT stool testing, and MT stool DNA testing,” he said.
The problem, Grady said, is that about 40% to 50% of people who should be tested aren’t getting tested.
“Blood-based screening tests are more readily accepted by the population than colonoscopies or stool tests, and may increase screening compliance rates.” (St. Petersburg)
It is hoped that blood-based tests will help improve screening rates.
”blood-based screening tests “It is likely to be more acceptable to the public and increase screening compliance than colonoscopies or stool tests,” Grady said, “which could lead to a reduction in colorectal cancer-related deaths.” Stated.
Some doctors have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of blood tests, especially their low sensitivity for precancerous symptoms.
Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of death for cancer patients: new report
“These newer blood-based tests are not as effective as Cologuard because they detect adenomas poorly.” [the stool sample test]Even if compliance is perfect compared to current compliance with Cologuard,” Dr. Mark Fendrick of the University of Michigan School of Public Health said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.
Fendrick was not involved in the NEJM study.
“It’s exciting to have data on a new blood-based screening test for colorectal cancer that, if approved, could help identify people who should undergo a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis. and ultimately help save lives.” (St. Petersburg)
The American College of Gastroenterology issued a statement in response to the NEJM study.
“It’s exciting to have data on a new blood-based screening test for colorectal cancer that, if approved, could help identify people who should undergo a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis. and ultimately help save lives,” said Dr. Barbara H. Jung. she said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital by the president of the American College of Gastroenterology.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
However, the association warned that precancerous polyps, which can be detected by colonoscopies, are not detected by blood tests.
“The blood test reported in the New England Journal of Medicine study was designed to detect only cancer, not precancerous polyps,” Jung noted.
However, blood tests do not detect precancerous polyps that colonoscopies can detect.
“Although the blood test is not compatible with colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening, it should prove to be an additional tool to help detect colorectal cancer early.”
Blood tests may be recommended for patients who have refused all other recommended tests, Jung said. “Because screening is better than no screening at all.”
One expert said blood tests may be recommended for patients who have refused all other recommended tests, “because any screening is better than no screening.” (St. Petersburg)
If you are interested in the SHIELD blood test, please consult your doctor. primary care providersaid Grady.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“Given that at the moment people are given the choice of bowel cancer screening with either a stool-based test or a colonoscopy, half of them choose not to have either. This is important,” he added.
For more health articles, visit: www.foxnews.com/health.
