By [Subham Malakar] • Updated: June 22, 2025
A groundbreaking study by Johns Hopkins University researchers reveals that a simple blood test can detect multiple cancers up to three years before patients exhibit any symptoms. Published May 22 in the peer‑reviewed journal Cancer Discovery, this research paves the way for earlier interventions and potentially life‑saving treatments. hub.jhu.edu
5 Key Takeaways
- Multicancer Early Detection (MCED) Test: The study used an ultra‑sensitive sequencing assay to identify circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) fragments in plasma samples.
- Study Cohort: Researchers analyzed samples from 52 participants in the NIH‑funded Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, originally focused on cardiovascular health.
- Early Flags: Of 26 participants later diagnosed with cancer, 8 tested positive on the MCED assay; archived samples from 4 of these individuals contained detectable ctDNA mutations 3.1–3.5 years before clinical diagnosis.
- Implications for Survival: Detecting tumors at a pre‑symptomatic stage could significantly improve outcomes, as early‑stage cancers are often more treatable and curable.
- Next Steps: Larger clinical trials and regulatory approval (FDA) are needed before widespread adoption. hub.jhu.edu
How the Test Works
MCED assays leverage liquid biopsy techniques to capture and sequence cell‑free DNA shed by tumor cells into the bloodstream. Advanced next‑generation sequencing (NGS) platforms scan for cancer‑specific genetic and epigenetic signatures, offering a non‑invasive alternative to tissue biopsies. en.wikipedia.org
Expert Insights
“Three years earlier provides time for intervention,”
noted Yuxuan Wang, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
“The tumors are likely to be much less advanced and more likely to be curable.” hub.jhu.edu
However, caution is advised. Dr. Otis Brawley, Professor of Oncology and Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University and former Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society, warns that without robust guidelines, early‑detection screenings risk overdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions:
“If we’re not careful, this is going to be the wild, wild west of screening.” statnews.com
What Happens Next?
- Clinical Validation: Expanded trials across diverse populations to confirm accuracy and minimize false positives.
- Regulatory Review: Submission of MCED data to the FDA for approval as a cancer‑screening tool.
- Guideline Development: Collaboration with professional societies (e.g., ASCO, ACS) to define follow‑up protocols for positive tests.
- Integration into Care: Potential rollout in high‑risk groups before general population screening.
Daily Digest: Early Detection Updates
- June 20, 2025: Grail’s liquid biopsy shows tissue‑of‑origin accuracy in early trials.
- June 18, 2025: EU regulators fund pan‑cancer screening pilot in asymptomatic adults.
- June 15, 2025: Canadian task force reviews MCED tests for high‑risk populations.
Fact‑Check
- Overdiagnosis Risk: Experts highlight that detecting indolent tumors could lead to unnecessary treatments.
- Clinical Follow‑Up: No current consensus on managing asymptomatic individuals with positive ctDNA tests.
- Test Accessibility: High costs and technical complexity may limit equitable access.
