Revolutionary Blood Test Detects Colon Cancer with High Accuracy

A groundbreaking blood test can identify colon cancer with over 80% accuracy and effectively rule it out for 90% of healthy individuals. These findings were showcased at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium held in San Francisco.

The study results were also published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Study Overview

Researchers analyzed blood samples from over 27,000 adults aged 45 to 85. This cohort underwent blood draws prior to colonoscopy, which screens for signs of cancer. The participants were enrolled between May 2020 and April 2022.

During the study, scientists tested the blood for “molecular signals of advanced colorectal cellular changes” and compared the results to colonoscopy findings.

Test Sensitivity and Specificity

The study revealed the test’s sensitivity, which indicates its success rate in detecting existing colon cancer, to be 81.1%. Furthermore, its specificity, reflecting the percentage of participants without colon cancer who tested negative, was reported at 90.4%.

Expert Insights

Dr. Aasma Shaukat, lead author from NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the necessity for additional colorectal cancer screening methods. “Current screening options include stool-based tests and invasive procedures like colonoscopy. This blood test has the potential to significantly enhance colorectal cancer screening rates,” she stated.

Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine described the experimental blood test as a vital addition to existing colorectal cancer screening tools. “This study explores blood-based screening that may provide an easy and effective option for average-risk populations in the U.S.,” she remarked.

The Future of Liquid Biopsies

Pashtoon Kasi, MD, a medical director of gastrointestinal oncology at City of Hope, acknowledged that blood tests, often termed “liquid biopsies,” are transforming cancer care. “These tests analyze components of tumors released into the bloodstream, simplifying early cancer detection,” he explained.

While several blood tests are already integrating into clinical practice, the future remains promising. Some blood tests target specific cancers, while others aim for multi-cancer detection from a single draw.

Role of Colonoscopies

Despite advances in blood testing, Dr. Kasi warns that these should not replace colonoscopies, which remain the gold standard for colon cancer screening. “Colonoscopies not only detect but also prevent colon cancer by identifying and removing polyps,” he stressed. Moreover, if blood tests indicate cancer, a colonoscopy is still necessary for further evaluation.

“Early detection of colon cancer typically leads to better outcomes,” Dr. Kasi continued. “Patients often experience no symptoms in the initial stages of the disease.”

Addressing Screening Gaps

Data reveal that approximately one-third to half of individuals do not engage in recommended colon cancer screenings. Dr. Kasi expressed hope that this blood test could help bridge that gap. “Many find colonoscopy preparation unappealing, and blood tests offer a more attractive option,” he stated, calling the blood-based test a potential game changer.

Rising Colorectal Cancer Rates

The urgency for expanded screening options is heightened by an alarming increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50. “By 2030, colorectal cancer is projected to be the leading cause of cancer death for young adults in the U.S.,” Dr. Kasi warned.

To combat this trend, further research and diagnostic testing for younger demographics is crucial.

Colorectal Cancer Statistics

Currently, colorectal cancer ranks as the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and is the second deadliest according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Continuing research into the long-term impact of the blood test is vital.

“Once approved by regulatory bodies and insurance providers, these blood tests will become widely accessible for clinical use,” Dr. Shaukat mentioned.

Who Should Consider the Blood Test?

The blood test is recommended for individuals between 45 and 85 at average risk for colon cancer who are due for screening. However, it is not suitable for those with high-risk family backgrounds or specific medical conditions that elevate colon cancer risk. If the test returns a positive result, follow-up colonoscopy is essential for further assessment.

Patients are advised to consult their healthcare providers about various colorectal cancer screening options—such as stool tests, blood tests, and colonoscopies—to determine the most appropriate choice for their circumstances.

The study did not receive any funding, as stated in the press release.