What is the new NHS blood test for lung cancer?

The new NHS blood test is a liquid biopsy that analyzes tumor DNA fragments in the bloodstream to guide personalized cancer treatments.

What are the main causes of lung cancer in the UK?

The primary cause is smoking, but genetic factors, pollution, obesity, and exposure to asbestos or certain chemicals also contribute.

What are the early signs of lung cancer I should know about?

Watch for a persistent cough, returning chest infections, unexplained weight loss, breathlessness, fatigue, and shoulder pain.

Home / Health / NHS Launches World-First Liquid Biopsy for Cancer

NHS Launches World-First Liquid Biopsy for Cancer

14 Dec

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Summary

A new blood test analyzes circulating tumor DNA fragments for personalized cancer treatment.
This world-first liquid biopsy aims to reduce wait times for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Initial rollout targets lung and breast cancer patients, with future expansion possible.

NHS Launches World-First Liquid Biopsy for Cancer

NHS England has launched a revolutionary liquid biopsy blood test, a pioneering innovation designed to transform cancer care. This world-first diagnostic tool analyzes fragments of tumor DNA circulating in the bloodstream, enabling doctors to prescribe personalized treatments more swiftly. The test identifies specific genetic mutations, often eliminating the need for invasive tissue biopsies and significantly reducing patient wait times for targeted therapies.

The groundbreaking test will initially be deployed for patients with lung cancer, building on a successful pilot program for non-small cell lung cancer. Officials have confirmed its expansion to include breast cancer patients, aiming to detect a broader spectrum of genetic variants. This significant advancement in medical technology is anticipated to benefit approximately 15,000 patients each year, with potential for future application across other cancer types.