Cancer is notoriously challenging to detect early, which is a significant problem as early cancer detection saves lives. While there are many approaches to detect cancer early, too many cancers are detected too late. In today's episode of Beyond the Abstract, Derek and Dan discuss an important new approach to cancer detection called a blood biopsy, which analyses molecules in a blood draw to search for signs of cancer. They discuss a new study using blood biopsies to detect colon cancer, and explain some statistical principles that help us understand whether a new cancer test actually works.

Articles discussed

A Cell-free DNA Blood-based Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening. Chung et al. 2024 NEJM. 

ECLIPSE trial

Next-Generation Multitarget Stool DNA Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening. Imperiale et al. 2024 NEJM. BLUE-C trial