Daijiworld Media Network- Washington
Washington, Jan 30: A simple blood test has shown promising results in accurately detecting colon cancer, a deadly disease that is rising at an alarming rate, especially among young adults. The experimental test not only identifies colon cancer effectively but also rules it out in healthy individuals, making it a less invasive alternative to traditional screening methods like colonoscopy and stool-based tests.
According to a study presented at the 2025 American Society of clinical oncology gastrointestinal cancers symposium, the test demonstrated an 81% accuracy in detecting colon cancer among diagnosed patients and correctly ruled it out in 90% of healthy individuals. Researchers believe that this innovation could significantly improve screening rates, particularly among those who avoid colonoscopies due to their invasive nature.
Currently, 22% of eligible individuals in the US have never undergone colon cancer screening, with the figure rising to 40% in certain states. The reluctance towards colonoscopy is often due to the unpleasant bowel preparation and the need for anaesthesia during the procedure. While stool tests are another screening method, they must be conducted annually as per existing guidelines.
The study, conducted across 200 sites in the US, involved over 40,000 participants aged 45 to 85. Blood samples were drawn for the test, followed by standard colonoscopy for comparison. The results confirmed the effectiveness and reliability of the blood test as a screening tool.
Dr Pamela Kunz, chief of GI medical oncology at the Yale School of Medicine, hailed the development, stating, “This blood test represents a new tool in our colorectal cancer screening options. It may provide a convenient and effective method for colorectal cancer screening in the average-risk U.S. population.”
Colon cancer, which typically affects older adults, originates in the colon, the longest section of the large intestine. It often begins as polyps, small clumps of cells that can develop into cancer over time. Alarmingly, cases among people under 50 years old have been rising sharply, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and effective screening options.
With this breakthrough, experts hope that early detection rates will improve, potentially saving thousands of lives.