A recent study has shown promising results for a new blood test designed to detect colon cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The test, which looks for DNA fragments released by tumor cells and precancerous growths, demonstrated an 83% accuracy rate in identifying cancers. However, it was less effective in detecting precancerous growths compared to the gold standard screening method, colonoscopy.
Despite its potential, the blood test has not yet received approval from the Food and Drug Administration and is not covered by most insurance providers. The test is currently available for purchase in the U.S. for $895, with the manufacturer, Guardant Health, expecting an FDA decision later this year.
