Summary
A blood test developed by the company Grail can detect over 50 types of cancer by identifying bits of DNA from tumors in the blood. A study in North America showed that the test could find early-stage cancers, potentially improving treatment success. The test detected cancers that typically don't have routine screenings, but more research is necessary to confirm its impact on reducing cancer deaths.
Key Facts
- The Galleri blood test can look for more than 50 types of cancer.
- In a trial involving 25,000 adults in the U.S. and Canada, the test detected cancer in participants with a high degree of accuracy.
- It detected early-stage cancers, which are easier to treat.
- Three-quarters of the cancers detected do not have existing screening programs, such as ovarian and liver cancer.
- The test accurately identified where the cancer started in 90% of cases.
- Results from a larger trial with 140,000 NHS patients in England are expected next year.
- Experts emphasize the need for more research to see if the test helps reduce cancer deaths.
- The NHS plans to expand the test if upcoming results are positive.