New Blood Test Detects Multiple Cancers

Apollo Cancer Centres has introduced a new blood-based multi-cancer detection test in India. This initiative follows a collaboration with Zydus Lifesciences, enabling the offering of screening technology originally developed by Guardant Health.

The Shield™ Multi-Cancer Detection (MCD) test is a methylation-based blood test. It is designed to identify signals linked to multiple cancers, including bladder, colorectal, breast, prostate, oesophageal, gastric, liver, lung, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. The test is intended for individuals aged 45 and above who are considered at average risk for developing cancer.

This launch addresses the increasing cancer burden in India. While the test shows strong sensitivity and specificity for certain cancers, medical professionals emphasize its use under guidance, acknowledging that no single test is a perfect solution for early cancer detection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted Breakthrough Device Designation for eight cancer types, though this is not an approval. The Shield MCD test is a laboratory-developed test intended for export and is not approved for sale within the U.S.