A new test for colon cancer is reportedly being developed.
A new test for colon cancer is currently under development. As reported by HealthDay News, new research suggests stool DNA testing may more effectively detect colorectal cancer in the curable stage and common precancerous polyps (adenomas).
Senior investigator of the research, to be presented at the American Gastroenterological Association annual meeting, Dr. David Ahlquist, is quoted in the report as stating in a Mayo news release of the findings on one study, “This study shows that cancer and precancer in IBD can be detected noninvasively… The 90 percent detection rate by stool DNA testing is remarkable. It’s important for people with IBD because they are at much higher risk for colorectal cancer than the general population. Given the limitations of colonoscopies in detecting these lesions, stool DNA testing could play a complementary role to improve the effectiveness of cancer surveillance.”
Ahlquist is further quoted as stating, “Detection of these important types of precancer by stool DNA testing offers promise in our efforts to more effectively and affordably prevent colorectal cancer. However, findings from both pilot studies need to be corroborated in larger studies.”
