New Study Suggests Approval of Colorectal Cancer Blood Test by 2024
A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that a blood test for colorectal cancer may soon become available. The study, which included 17,861 participants from the United States, revealed that a blood test called Shield from Guardant Health was highly effective in detecting colorectal cancer. However, it is important to note that this blood test would not replace the need for a colonoscopy.
The blood test was able to detect approximately 83% of colonoscopy cancers, making it a promising tool for early detection. However, it is worth mentioning that most cancers are not diagnosed through blood tests. In fact, 10% of individuals whose colonoscopy results did not reveal colon cancer had their blood tests misdiagnosed as cancerous. Therefore, it is crucial that the blood test is used in conjunction with colonoscopies to ensure accurate diagnoses.
Although the Shield blood test is currently available in the United States for $895, most insurance plans do not cover the cost. However, Guardant Health is hopeful that the FDA will approve the product later this year. If approved, the blood test will be administered every three years, starting at the age of 45.
It is important to note that even if this blood test is approved, people with symptoms of colon cancer or those who have risk factors, such as a family history of the disease, would still require a colonoscopy. Colonoscopies remain the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer typically occurs in older adults and is caused by small clusters of cells called polyps that develop in the colon. While polyps are not usually cancerous, they have the potential to turn into cancer over time. This is why regular screening tests are essential in order to identify and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and the third leading cause worldwide, according to Cancer.org. Despite this alarming statistic, fewer than 60% of eligible individuals are up-to-date on their colorectal cancer screening exams. This highlights the importance of increasing awareness about the available screening methods and encouraging people to get tested.
In conclusion, the potential approval of a blood test for colorectal cancer marks a significant development in the field of cancer detection. While the Shield blood test has shown promising results, it is crucial that it is used alongside colonoscopies for accurate diagnoses. Regular screening tests, whether it be through blood tests or colonoscopies, are essential in detecting colorectal cancer early and preventing its progression. By increasing awareness and ensuring access to these screening methods, we can significantly reduce the impact of colorectal cancer on individuals and communities.