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Prostate Cancer Test Offers New Hope
27 Oct
Summary
- Genomic test predicts response to abiraterone hormone therapy.
- Decipher test analyzes cancer's molecular makeup for treatment guidance.
- New approach could spare patients unnecessary medication and side effects.
A groundbreaking diagnostic test may soon transform the experience of millions of men diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Researchers at University College London analyzed the Decipher genomic test. This test evaluates tissue to identify high-risk prostate cancer patients most likely to benefit from intensified treatment.
The study focused on abiraterone, a hormone therapy that significantly reduces the risk of death for men with high-risk, localized prostate cancer. The findings were presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2026.
Decipher scores were analyzed in real-world data and a clinical trial. Higher scores indicated a greater likelihood of cancer spread, suggesting additional treatment is valuable. Conversely, lower scores indicated intensive treatment might be unnecessary.
Lead researcher Dr. Sarah Howlett noted that understanding who benefits most is critical for preventing disease spread. While promising, further validation is required before Decipher is routinely used for treatment decisions.
Elai Davicioni from Veracyte, the test's maker, expressed confidence that this evidence supports physicians in using Decipher for better treatment outcomes and patient quality of life.
