New Blood Test Offers Hope for Early Detection of Colon Cancer

New Blood Test Offers Hope for Early Detection of Colon Cancer

A revolutionary blood test has emerged, demonstrating the capability to detect colon cancer with an impressive accuracy rate exceeding 80%. Moreover, it has shown efficacy in ruling out colon cancer for 90% of healthy individuals.

Key Presentation and Publication

This significant research was presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, held in San Francisco last month. Additionally, the results were published in the highly regarded Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Study Overview

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

Researchers diligently tested the blood samples for molecular signals indicative of advanced colorectal cellular changes, comparing these results with the outcomes of the colonoscopies.

Test Sensitivity and Specificity

The findings highlighted that the sensitivity of this new blood test—its success rate at detecting existing colon cancer—stood at an impressive 81.1%. Conversely, the specificity of the test, which identifies the share of participants who tested negative for colon cancer, reached 90.4%.

A Call for More Screening Options

Dr. Aasma Shaukat, the lead author from NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the need for additional colorectal cancer screening tests that are convenient, safe, and easy to complete. In a press release from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), she noted, “Until now, we have only had stool-based tests and colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy for screening. A blood test could significantly improve colorectal cancer screening rates.”

Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine added that this experimental blood test is a promising new tool in the fight against colorectal cancer.

Impact on Colorectal Cancer Screening

Dr. Kunz, who did not participate in the study, remarked that blood-based screening may be a convenient and effective option for the average-risk population in the United States.

Similarly, Pashtoon Kasi, MD, medical director of gastrointestinal medical oncology at City of Hope Orange County, underlined the transformative potential of such blood tests, often referred to as “liquid biopsies.” These tests analyze components of cancers or tumors that enter the bloodstream, providing crucial insights into cancer detection.

The Role of Liquid Biopsies

Dr. Kasi noted that various kinds of blood tests are already integrating into clinical practice. Some tests are specific to certain cancers while others are designed for multi-cancer early detection, capable of identifying multiple types of cancer from a single blood draw.

Nevertheless, Dr. Kasi cautioned against replacing colonoscopies with blood tests. He reaffirmed that colonoscopies remain the gold standard for colon cancer screening, as they can prevent colon cancer through polyp detection and removal.

Importance of Early Detection

If a blood test indicates potential cancer, additional tests, including a colonoscopy, remain necessary for evaluation. Early detection of colon cancer is crucial, as it typically leads to better outcomes. Kasai stated, “Colon cancer often grows slowly and can be asymptomatic in its early stages.”

Statistics reveal that a significant proportion of individuals do not undergo recommended colon cancer screenings. As Dr. Kasi pointed out, the aim is for the blood test to help fill this screening gap.

Increasing Diagnosis Among Younger Adults

Concerns are mounting as colorectal cancer cases among individuals under 50 soar. Dr. Kasi highlighted that by 2030, colorectal cancer could become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among young adults in the U.S. This alarming trend necessitates expanded research and diagnostic resources targeted at younger demographics.

Colorectal cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in the United States and is the second deadliest type, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

The Path Ahead for Blood-Based Testing

Moving forward, researchers plan to explore the long-term implications of the colorectal blood test. As regulatory bodies and Medicare begin approving these tests, they will become more widely available for clinical use. The target population includes men and women aged 45 to 85 who are at average risk for colon cancer.

However, Dr. Kasi noted that individuals with a high-risk family history or other medical conditions will not be eligible for this blood test. Additionally, a positive test result will still necessitate a colonoscopy for further evaluation.

Empowering Patients in Screening Choices

Ultimately, the researcher advises patients to consult their healthcare providers about available colorectal cancer screening options, whether a stool test, blood test, or colonoscopy, to determine the most suitable choice.

The study was conducted without external funding, underscoring the commitment to advancing colorectal cancer screening methods.