Cancer kills 9.7 million people worldwide each year despite better treatments. Johns Hopkins scientists found a blood test that spots cancer years before symptoms appear. Dr. Yuxuan Wang published results showing the test finds tumor DNA floating around blood streams. The team studied 52 blood samples from people who later developed cancer or stayed healthy.
Eight people tested positive for cancer signals and doctors confirmed tumors within four months. Scientists checked older blood samples from six patients and discovered cancer DNA three years before diagnosis. The multicancer early detection test costs hundreds of dollars and lacks FDA approval. Insurance companies refuse to pay for these experimental screenings.
The American Cancer Society warns that positive test results do not guarantee cancer presence. Wang's research team believes the blood tests help doctors catch cancer much earlier. Scientists continue studying whether early detection saves more lives from the deadly disease. Medical experts debate if insurance should cover these tests before government approval.
Eight people tested positive for cancer signals and doctors confirmed tumors within four months. Scientists checked older blood samples from six patients and discovered cancer DNA three years before diagnosis. The multicancer early detection test costs hundreds of dollars and lacks FDA approval. Insurance companies refuse to pay for these experimental screenings.
The American Cancer Society warns that positive test results do not guarantee cancer presence. Wang's research team believes the blood tests help doctors catch cancer much earlier. Scientists continue studying whether early detection saves more lives from the deadly disease. Medical experts debate if insurance should cover these tests before government approval.
