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One in six deaths worldwide is due to cancer. 60 percent of these are caused by cancers for which there are no early detection tests. The existing tests also have disadvantages, including high cost and low accuracy.
Now researchers from the American biotech company Novelna have developed a new DNA test. This should make it possible to detect 18 different types of cancer in all major organs of the body at an early stage. The test must be cheap and accurate at the same time.
The DNA test was tested in a study published in the journal BMJ Oncology. According to the scientists, it should pave the way for a new generation of early detection tests.
3000 proteins discovered as markers
Although certain blood proteins are already used as indicators for early detection, currently available tests are not sensitive enough. On the one hand to detect cancer, on the other hand to exclude healthy people.
For the DNA testing study, scientists took blood plasma samples from 440 people who had previously been diagnosed with one of 18 different types of cancer, and from 44 healthy blood donors. The researchers were able to identify 3,000 proteins that indicated early-stage cancer and also where the diseased cells in the body came from.
The first research is therefore promising. However, the researchers admit that further research is needed because the current study took place on a small scale. Nevertheless, the test is a first step in this direction. (gs)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
