New Blood Tests Show Promise for Detecting Cancer Early, But Questions Remain
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New blood tests can detect cancer early by analyzing substances like tumor DNA fragments shed into the bloodstream. Tests like Galleri screen for multiple cancers while others focus on specific cancers.
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These tests don't diagnose cancer but may find "silent" cancers like pancreatic cancer early when treatment may be more successful. However, they don't replace standard screenings like mammograms yet.
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Some tests like Galleri cost nearly $1000 and aren't typically covered by insurance, but some employers and doctors provide them. Studies are underway to see if they improve survival.
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Patients like Cindy Perez say the tests saved their lives by finding cancer early when they had no symptoms. But questions remain about how well they find fast-moving cancers.
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Experts say the tests are promising but more research is needed to prove they reduce deaths. Widespread use may be years away as questions remain about who should get tested and how often.