New Blood Test Shows Promise in Detecting Colorectal Cancer with High Accuracy

Innovative Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer Detection

A groundbreaking blood test has emerged that can detect colorectal cancer with over 80% accuracy while ruling out the disease in 90% of healthy individuals. This significant advancement was presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium in San Francisco and is also featured in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Key Findings from the Study

The comprehensive study involved over 27,000 adults aged between 45 and 85, who provided blood samples prior to undergoing colonoscopy screening for signs of cancer. Participants were enrolled from May 2020 to April 2022.

Researchers investigated the blood samples for “molecular signals of advanced colorectal cellular changes” and compared the findings with colonoscopy results. They discovered that:

• The sensitivity of the blood test in detecting existing colorectal cancer was found to be 81.1%.
• The specificity rate, indicating the percentage of participants without cancer who tested negative, stood at 90.4%.

The Need for Improved Screening Methods

Dr. Aasma Shaukat, the lead author from NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the pressing need for additional colorectal cancer screening methods that are convenient and safe. She stated that previously, options were limited to stool-based tests and invasive procedures like colonoscopies or sigmoidoscopies.

“A blood test offers a less invasive option that could improve screening rates for colorectal cancer,” said Shaukat in a press release from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

Expert Opinions on the Blood Test

Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine described the blood test as a valuable addition to existing colorectal cancer screening tools. Although not involved in the study, she expressed optimism regarding its practicality for the average-risk U.S. population.

Dr. Pashtoon Kasi, a medical director specializing in gastrointestinal oncology at the City of Hope in California, noted the revolutionary potential of such blood tests, also termed “liquid biopsies.” He explained that these tests analyze cancer components released into the bloodstream, adding that:

• Some blood tests focus specifically on colorectal cancer, while others can detect multiple types of cancer simultaneously via a single blood draw.

However, he underscored the fact that blood tests should not supersede colonoscopies, which remain the gold standard in colon cancer screening. “Colonoscopies can prevent cancer by detecting and removing polyps before they develop into cancerous growths,” said Kasi.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of cancer generally leads to better health outcomes, according to experts. Dr. Kasi pointed out that colorectal cancer typically progresses slowly and may not exhibit symptoms in its initial stages. Alarmingly, studies indicate that one-third to half of individuals do not receive their recommended colon cancer screenings.

“The appeal of a simple blood test could significantly increase screening rates,” he remarked, referring to the often daunting nature of colonoscopy preparation.

As more young adults experience colorectal cancer diagnoses, it is crucial to expand research and accessibility regarding blood-based screening methods. Dr. Kasi warned that by 2030, colorectal cancer may become the leading cause of cancer death among younger adults in the U.S.

Future Implications and Recommendations

Researchers plan to continue exploring the long-term effects and efficacy of these blood tests. Lead study author Shaukat mentioned that with the proper approvals, these tests could soon be accessible for clinical use.

Designed for individuals aged 45 to 85 at average risk for colorectal cancer, the new blood tests will provide another option for screening. However, if an individual has a family history or other medical conditions elevating their risk, they should consult their healthcare provider about suitable screening strategies.

The study did not disclose any sources of funding for the research, indicating independence in its findings.

Embracing Cancer Screening Advancements

As the field of cancer detection evolves, the advent of blood tests like this one represents a promising direction. By offering an alternative that is less invasive and potentially more acceptable, researchers hope to address the declining screening rates and improve detection of colorectal cancer in the USA.