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Cancer Treatment: 5 Blood Tests To Help Detect Cancer Early
Recent advancements in cancer detection shows five key blood tests that can identify cancer early, improving treatment outcomes. These tests reveal presence and progression of various cancers. Read on to know more.
5 Blood Tests To Detect Cancer Early (Image Credits: iStock)
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. Early detection is critical in improving survival rates. Recent advancements in medical technology have paved the way for innovative blood tests that can identify cancer at its earliest stages. While the following tests are not a replacement for traditional screening methods, they can help you fight against cancer. Here we have listed five blood tests that can help early detection of various cancers.
1. Liquid Biopsy
Liquid biopsy is a test that analyzes circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in the blood. This technique allows for the non-invasive detection of cancer-related genetic mutations. Research has shown that liquid biopsies can detect tumours in various cancers, including lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that liquid biopsies could detect cancer with an accuracy of up to 90 per cent in some cases. The ability to monitor tumour progression and treatment response through regular blood draws makes liquid biopsy a valuable tool in cancer management. Further, liquid biopsies can identify minimal residual disease, which is crucial for predicting relapse.
2. CA-125 Test
The CA-125 test measures the level of cancer antigen 125 in the blood, primarily used as a marker for ovarian cancer. Elevated CA-125 levels may indicate the presence of ovarian tumours, although it is important to note that elevated levels can also be associated with benign conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.Research indicates that regular monitoring of CA-125 levels can help in the early detection of ovarian cancer, especially in women at high risk, such as those with a family history of the disease. A study published in Cancer Prevention Research demonstrated that women with elevated CA-125 levels and subsequent imaging tests had a higher likelihood of early-stage ovarian cancer diagnosis.
3. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) TestThe PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood and is commonly used for the early detection of prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels may suggest prostate cancer, but they can also indicate benign prostate conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis.
A study conducted by the American Cancer Society showed that PSA screening could reduce the risk of prostate cancer death by up to 30 per cent. However, the test has faced criticism for potential overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Therefore, patients must discuss the benefits and risks of PSA testing with their healthcare providers.
4. Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test
The AFP test measures the levels of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus. In adults, elevated AFP levels can indicate liver cancer or germ cell tumours. The AFP test is particularly useful in monitoring patients with liver cirrhosis, as they are at increased risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma.A study published in Hepatology revealed that routine AFP testing could lead to earlier detection of liver cancer, improving prognosis. Patients with chronic liver disease should consider regular AFP screenings as part of their cancer surveillance strategy.
5. Methylated Septin 9 (mSEPT9) Test
The mSEPT9 test is a blood-based assay that detects methylated DNA from the SEPT9 gene, which is associated with colorectal cancer. This test has gained approval for clinical use in detecting colorectal cancer in average-risk individuals, making it an essential tool for early screening.A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that the mSEPT9 test had a sensitivity of 68 per cent for detecting colorectal cancer, making it a promising alternative to traditional screening methods like colonoscopy. The convenience of a blood test for colorectal cancer screening may encourage more people to undergo regular screenings, ultimately leading to earlier detection.
Early detection of cancer significantly enhances the chances of successful treatment and improved survival rates. Blood tests such as liquid biopsies, CA-125, PSA, AFP, and the mSEPT9 test offer innovative approaches to identifying cancer at its earliest stages. While these tests are not a replacement for traditional screening methods, they can serve as valuable adjuncts in the fight against cancer.
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Pallavi Mehra author
Pallavi Mehra is a Copy Editor at Times Now and covers Health beat extensively. In her leisure time she likes to read, travel, explore cafes and binge...View More
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