Seattle, Washington: Scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against colorectal cancer. A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals that a simple blood test developed by Guardant Health in California could detect colorectal cancer with over 80% accuracy.
The study, which involved nearly 8,000 participants aged 45 to 84, compared the results of the SHIELD blood test with those of colonoscopy, the current gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. The blood test works by identifying circulating tumor DNA shed by colorectal cancer tumors, known as ctDNA.
Results showed that among participants with confirmed colorectal cancer, 83% tested positive using the blood test, while 16.9% tested negative. The test was found to be more effective at detecting colorectal cancer than precancerous lesions.
Dr. William M. Grady, a gastroenterologist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, emphasized that the SHIELD blood test is intended for average-risk individuals without symptoms. The American Cancer Society recommends regular screenings for those at average risk starting at age 45.
While the blood test shows promise in increasing colorectal cancer screening compliance, some experts have raised concerns about its effectiveness in detecting precancerous polyps. Dr. Mark Fendrick of the University of Michigan School of Public Health pointed out that the test may not be as effective as existing methods like the Cologuard stool sample test.
Despite these limitations, experts believe that the blood test could still serve as a valuable additional tool in early cancer detection. Dr. Barbara H. Jung, president of the American Gastroenterological Association, noted that the test could help save lives by identifying individuals who need further screening.
Ultimately, the hope is that the availability of a blood-based screening test will encourage more people to undergo colorectal cancer screening. While the test may not replace colonoscopies entirely, it could provide an alternative for those who are not inclined to undergo traditional screening methods.
Individuals interested in the SHIELD blood test are advised to consult their primary care providers for more information. With increasing awareness and accessibility to screening options, the fight against colorectal cancer continues to advance towards early detection and prevention.