The FDA advisory committee is meeting today to review a new blood test developed by Guardant Health that checks for colorectal cancers. This test, known as the Shield test, has shown promising results in clinical trials and could provide an alternative to more invasive screening methods like colonoscopies. If approved, this would be the first blood test for colorectal cancer that qualifies for Medicare reimbursement, increasing access to screening for more patients.
The Shield test by Guardant Health works by identifying cancer signals in DNA shed by tumors in the blood stream. While it is not meant to replace current screening methods, it offers a convenient and accessible option for those who may be reluctant to undergo more invasive procedures. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, after lung cancer, and despite its high fatality rate, many eligible individuals do not undergo recommended screenings. The results of the Shield test’s clinical trials have been met with enthusiasm as it provides an additional screening option that could help close the screening gap and detect colorectal cancer in its early, more treatable stages. Chris Evans, president of the Colon Cancer Coalition, expressed optimism about the potential of the Shield test to increase screening rates and save lives.
