Common cancer type could be detected with new blood test
A groundbreaking new blood test has been discovered that can detect colon cancer with more than 80% accuracy and rule it out for 90% of healthy individuals. This exciting development was presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium in San Francisco and published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
The study involved over 27,000 adults aged between 45 and 85 who had their blood drawn before undergoing a colonoscopy to screen for signs of cancer. The researchers tested the blood samples for molecular signals of advanced colorectal cellular changes and compared the results with the colonoscopy findings. The test showed a sensitivity of 81.1% in detecting existing colon cancer and a specificity of 90.4% in ruling out the disease in healthy individuals.
Lead study author Dr. Aasma Shaukat from NYU Grossman School of Medicine emphasized the need for additional colorectal cancer screening options that are convenient, safe, and easy to complete. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and the second-deadliest type, making early detection crucial for improving outcomes.
Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine hailed the blood test as a new tool in the toolbox of colorectal cancer screening options. She highlighted the potential of blood-based screening to provide a convenient and effective option for the average-risk population, thus improving screening rates.
Dr. Pashtoon Kasi, the medical director of gastrointestinal medical oncology at City of Hope Orange County, noted that liquid biopsies like this blood test are revolutionizing cancer care. While colonoscopies remain the gold standard for colon cancer screening, blood tests offer a simple and less invasive alternative for detecting the disease early.
The rise in colon cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50 years old underscores the importance of expanding screening options. By 2030, colorectal cancer is projected to be the leading cause of cancer death for young adults in the U.S. Therefore, the development of effective and accessible screening methods like the new blood test is crucial for saving lives.
As researchers continue to study the long-term impact of the blood test, it is essential for individuals to discuss colorectal cancer screening options with their healthcare providers. Whether opting for a stool test, blood test, or colonoscopy, selecting the best screening method based on individual risk factors and preferences can help in early detection and prevention of colon cancer.
In conclusion, the discovery of this innovative blood test represents a significant advancement in colorectal cancer screening and has the potential to revolutionize early detection efforts. By making screening more accessible and convenient, this test could help bridge the gap in colorectal cancer screening rates and ultimately save lives.
