multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are poised too revolutionize cancer screening, aiming to spot multiple cancers with a single blood draw. These tests, discussed at the 2025 ASCO meeting, analyze biomarkers to detect cancer signals earlier than traditional methods. though promising, challenges remain. Experts stress the need for more validation, particularly in sensitivity for early-stage cancers. The success of MCED hinges on equitable access and effective follow-up care, crucial for maximizing public health benefits. News Directory 3 follows the latest breakthroughs in this and other medical fields. Discover what’s next in the quest for a world with earlier and more effective cancer detection.
Multi-cancer Early Detection Tests Show Promise, Highlight Limitations
Updated June 01, 2025
the quest for a single test to detect cancer early may be closer to reality with multi-cancer early detection (MCED) assays.These tests, wich analyze blood samples for biomarkers, were a key topic at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting. Experts discussed the potential and limitations of MCED in cancer screening.
Dr. Scott David Ramsey from the fred Hutchinson Cancer Center noted that current screening methods only address about half of the cancer burden in the U.S. MCED tests analyze circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), methylation patterns, and other biomarkers to detect cancer signals earlier then traditional methods. Machine learning and artificial intelligence help predict the origin of the cancer,guiding further testing. Patient surveys in England indicate strong interest in MCED screening, with over 93% expressing willingness to undergo the test.
Though, Ramsey emphasized that MCED is just the first step in a longer screening process. Positive results must lead to quick and effective follow-up diagnostics and treatments. Screening tests, applied to asymptomatic people, require high specificity to minimize false positives and unnecessary interventions. Large-scale trials are needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of MCED in improving cancer outcomes.
Two studies presented at ASCO highlighted the potential of MCED.One, the CORE-HH study, focused on individuals with obesity, a significant cancer risk factor.Dr. Dax Kurbegov from the Sarah Cannon Research Institute presented data showing that the test achieved 60.5% sensitivity at 80% specificity. Reflex testing further improved specificity to 98.3%. Kurbegov noted the test’s “clinically meaningfulness” for cancers lacking organized screening programs.
Another study, the CCGA study, analyzed five-year survival data. Dr. Alan Bryce from the City of Hope Cancer Center Phoenix reported that survival rates for those with a cancer signal detected (CSD) were similar to those detected by conventional means. Survival differences were largely explained by the stage of the cancer at detection.
“The reflex ctDNA-methylation MCED test data achieved clinically meaningfulness for cancer intrinsic accuracy and per-TTO PPV across multiple cancer types,” said Kurbegov.
Despite the promise, limitations remain. Dr. Maximilian Diehn from Stanford University pointed out that methylation-based MCED tests often have high specificity but low sensitivity for early-stage cancers. This means they may miss many early cases, which are crucial for improving long-term outcomes. He stressed the need for randomized trials with survival endpoints to prove clinical utility.
What’s next
Experts agree that ensuring equitable access to MCED and appropriate follow-up care is crucial.Patient advocate Dr.jane perlmutter warned that MCED could increase health disparities without thoughtful policy decisions. Managed care organizations and policymakers must develop coverage frameworks that reduce costs and integrate culturally competent education to maximize the public health benefit of multi-cancer early detection.
