Blood test that could detect fifty types of cancer shows ‘promise’ in early trials

Scientists have said that a blood test that could spot fifty types of cancer has shown ‘promise’ in early trials, after it detected the disease in previously healthy people.

 

In the New York-based trials, scientists detected 35 cases of cancer when using the test, but another 57 people were wrongly diagnosed with the condition.

 

The Galleri blood test uses a single swab to attempt to locate a signal made by many cancers, including types affecting the lungs, kidneys and breasts.  Scientists say it shows great promise in detecting some cancers, like pancreatic, early, whereas tests currently used only detect them in later stages when chances of survival are reduced.

 

Dr Deb Schrag, who led the research, said “This study indicates that hope is on the horizon for detecting cancers that are currently unscreenable, but of course much more work is needed and, with experience and larger samples, this will improve.

 

“The tests need to be refined so they are better at distinguishing tumour DNA from all the other DNA that is circulating in the blood.”

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

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