Introduction
Novel multi-cancer early detection (MCED) assays exhibit the capability to identify diverse cancer types spanning various stages, characterized by a spectrum of sensitivity, specificity, and proficiency in determining the origin of the cancerous signal (Gelhorn, 2022). The PATHFINDER study assessed the practicability of employing MCED testing for cancer screening, employing next-generation sequencing of cell-free DNA extracted from peripheral blood. The investigation particularly emphasized diagnostic inquiries into individuals who yielded positive results for a cancer signal. (Lee, 2023)
Blood tests for multi-cancer early detection (MCED) seek out indications of cancer within cell-free deoxyribonucleic acid. These assessments possess the capacity to identify cancers in their early, asymptomatic stages, thereby enhancing overall cancer prognosis (Marlow, 2023).
In-progress developments of blood-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests hold the potential to significantly increase the spectrum of cancers amenable to screening. It is imperative to establish an optimal strategy for localizing the tissue of origin (TOO) in individuals exhibiting suspected MCED results indicative of cancer (Tyson, 2023).
Applications
Developing blood-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests possess the capability to identify diverse cancer types at various stages, exhibiting a spectrum of sensitivity, specificity, and the capacity to anticipate the origin of the cancer signal (Gelhorn, 2022).
Benefits
Although there exists notable heterogeneity in preferences for cancer screening, a predominant proportion of participants expressed a preference for multi-cancer early detection (MCED) screening, underscoring the significance of the accuracy of these tests (Gelhorn, 2022).
Employing screening programs that incorporate blood-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, capable of identifying a common cancer signal from any bodily site with a singular, low false-positive rate, holds the potential to diminish the burden of cancer through timely diagnosis (Sasieni, 2023).