A groundbreaking new screening method is showing promise to dramatically increase colon cancer detection rates. A simple blood test, called Shield, has been found to effectively identify signs of the deadly disease through just a few vials of blood.
While colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, unfortunately less than two-thirds of those eligible currently undergo the sometimes unpleasant procedure. However, the less invasive blood screen could change that by providing a new accessible option. In a recent clinical trial published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine, the Shield test successfully uncovered 83% of colon cancers present through analysis of blood DNA.
While not intended as a standalone diagnosis, a positive result would then trigger standard follow up colonoscopy. Detected later stage cancers were picked up with strong accuracy, showcasing the test’s potential to catch dangerous tumors before they spread. However, ability to spot very early precursor polyps was lower, emphasizing the continued need for colonoscopy for full screening and localizing suspicious areas.
If approved by the FDA later this year, the simple in-office Shield blood test would allow screening to start at age 45 through just a few vials taken every three years. This could go a long way in boosting participation among the many who hesitate to undergo colonoscopy. While colonoscopy remains central to screening, this new option may uncover colon cancer for thousands who would otherwise go undetected due to barriers to current testing methods. An easy blood screen every few years, with fast result return, could make colon health a priority for many more. Increased screening through this new test may finally help overcome colon cancer as a leading cause of cancer death.
