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.

This development coincides with a renewed focus on understanding lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in the UK. Key causes include smoking, genetics, pollution, and environmental exposures. Early diagnosis is crucial, and individuals experiencing persistent symptoms such as a new cough, chest infections, unexplained weight loss, or breathlessness are urged to seek medical advice promptly.