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Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) tests are new blood-based tests that can detect signals of cancer, before symptoms appear.
They promise early detection and more targeted treatment.
These tests are not yet officially approved in India and come with risks like false positives and potential overdiagnosis
How Blood-Based Tests for Cancer Screening Work
Blood-based tests look for cancer-related signals in the bloodstream, such as circulating tumor DNA or tumor cells.
These signals are released by cancerous cells and can indicate the presence of cancer.
These tests can detect up to 50 types of cancers, including those that are hard to screen for early, like ovarian, liver, and pancreatic cancers
A blood sample is taken and analyzed for cancer signals.
If cancer is detected, the test can help identify the cancer's location and assist in planning treatment.
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