MDEC Tests: Revolutionizing Cancer Screening.

What are they?

Multi-cancer early detection tests are a type of liquid biopsy that is used to catch early-stage cancer cells prior to the appearance of any symptoms. They are utilized for the identification of the origin of tumors based on protein profiles and DNA. MCED tests search for multiple types of cancer through blood, urine, saliva, or other bodily fluid samples. Through advances in genome sequencing and machine learning, this recently developed method was validated in the Circulating Cell Free Genome Atlas Study, and complements the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)-recommended screening.

Which types of cancer do MCED tests discover?

Multi-cancer early detection tests offer screening for up to 50+ tumor types. The cancers detected include pancreatic, kidney, breast, lung, prostate, skin, liver, and ovarian cancer. MCED tests are clinically available as an LDT (laboratory-developed test) performed in GRAIL’s laboratory with the help of the College of American Pathologists.

What are the benefits of MCED tests?

Several types of cancers, including ovarian, colorectal, cervical, breast, pancreatic, and liver cancer, are silent cancers that are often diagnosed late. As a result, the survival rate for these cancers is significantly lower as they are caught during the later stages. Early diagnosis opens the door to faster treatment and improved survival. With earlier detection, the need for expensive treatment plans is reduced, saving patients’ time and money. Cancer screening serves as a primary tool for the prevention and treatment of cancer, and MCED tests contribute to the fast-growing project of eliminating cancer.

What are the risks?

MCED tests have yet to be FDA-approved and tested in large clinical trials. These tests require more research in order for widespread use. False positives are a possible outcome of this kind of screening, making it controversial. In addition, MCED tests are not currently covered by insurance. However, the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act was created to help legislation gain FDA approval. 

Have MCED tests been proven to be successful?

It has been reported that the MCED test has identified 3 different cancers in separate individuals. The test has discovered stage I ovarian cancer, stage I renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and stage I squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oropharynx. These cases display the potential of MCED tests to reduce cancer mortality by detecting cancers at earlier stages and have an impact on the future of cancer screening.