Cancer is a dreaded word when it comes to hearing a diagnosis at a doctor’s office. However, having cancer doesn’t mean that you necessarily have to assume the worst. The latest updates and breakthroughs in treatments for various types of cancer mean that patients can go on to lead healthy and fulfilling lives after treatment.
One of the latest breakthroughs in colon cancer detection and treatment will help millions get the right healthcare, get answers to their symptoms, and come up with a comprehensive treatment plan with their doctor and treatment specialist. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has just recently allowed a groundbreaking test that is able to detect colon cancer, aiding in potential prevention or early detection that could decrease mortality rates.
What is the Colon Cancer Test?
The FDA approved the Guardant Health Shield test for detecting colon cancer in order to aid patients in receiving answers as quickly as possible and getting started on a comprehensive treatment plan. According to Guardant, this test is the “first blood test to be approved by the FDA. This test will be used as the main screening choice for colon cancer and colorectal cancer, allowing healthcare providers to administer the detection test in tandem with other screening guidelines.”
Guardant also stated that this colon cancer detection test is the first colorectal screening that allows Medicare users to qualify. This not only provides more widespread healthcare coverage for US residents, but makes healthcare accessible, inexpensive, and affordable to people of different socioeconomic backgrounds.
Current Screening Issues
In the world of cancer, there is a lack of screening tests that lead to early detection — which can lead to earlier treatment and better prognosis in the long run. The lack of colorectal cancer screening tests and rates indicates that the current screening choices are not available, or do not appeal, to those in the US who may need to get the test done.
Since the FDA has approved the Guardant Shield blood test, this provides a greater chance for people to be tested and take care of themselves. The new answer to colon cancer screening means that people will be less hesitant to get tested as they age, ensuring they can get the right treatment for potential health concerns.
Currently, the only screening test for early colorectal cancer is a colonoscopy, which can be an invasive and scary procedure for most people. Therefore, most patients will opt out of the procedure and choose the riskier option of never being tested. In this case, it can lead to detection rates later in the disease progression. Using the new Guardant Shield test is not only easier but it detects 83% of colon cancers. Patients can put their mind at ease by getting a test done after a certain age.
Guardant Promotes Their Screening Test
Guardant has stated their colon screening test is ideal for people who are at a low or moderate risk of having the disease and older than 45 years of age. However, they included a disclaimer that it is not meant for people who are at a high risk of the disease.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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