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New blood test to detect colon cancer clears FDA approval
The Independent • • health
Key Points:
- The FDA has approved SimpleScreen, a new blood test by Freenome, designed to help diagnose colorectal cancer in adults aged 45 and older who are at average risk, by detecting DNA signals linked to the disease.
- SimpleScreen provides results within a couple of weeks after a blood draw, with positive results requiring a follow-up colonoscopy for confirmation.
- In a study involving over 48,000 adults, SimpleScreen detected approximately 80% of colorectal cancers and correctly identified 90% of people without cancer or advanced precancerous lesions.
- This test aims to increase screening rates by offering a more convenient option, addressing the issue that many eligible individuals are not currently being screened for colorectal cancer.
- Colorectal cancer rates are rising in the U.S., especially among younger adults, with nearly 159,000 new cases expected this year, highlighting the importance of improved screening methods like SimpleScreen.
