New Study Finds Blood Tests Can Detect Cancers Up to Three Years Before Symptoms Appear

Recent research conducted by investigators at Johns Hopkins University has uncovered that tumors shed genetic material into the bloodstream long before clinical diagnosis is possible. According to the study published in Cancer Discovery, cancer-derived mutations can be identified in blood samples up to three years prior to the manifestation of symptoms or diagnosis. This breakthrough was achieved by analyzing plasma samples from participants in the NIH-funded ARIC study, which tracks risk factors for heart disease and related conditions.

Using highly sensitive sequencing techniques, researchers examined blood samples from 26 individuals who were later diagnosed with cancer within six months and compared them with similar participants who did not develop cancer. Remarkably, eight individuals tested positive for multilayered circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) at the time of sample collection. Further analysis revealed that in six of these cases, tumor mutations could be detected as early as 3.1 to 3.5 years before diagnosis.

The findings highlight the potential of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests to identify cancers at an earlier, more treatable stage, potentially improving patient outcomes. Lead author Dr. Yuxuan Wang emphasized that early detection provides critical time for intervention, as tumors tend to be smaller and less advanced at this juncture. Experts such as Dr. Bert Vogelstein note that setting benchmarks for sensitivity in these tests is vital for successful implementation.

While these results are promising, the researchers underscore the need for further studies to determine appropriate clinical pathways following positive test results. This advancement opens new avenues toward revolutionizing cancer screening and early diagnosis, helping to save lives through earlier intervention.