Detecting lung cancer with blood tests

New York residents who are concerned about cancer may be interested to learn that genetic blood testing may be able to detect the early stages of some cancerous conditions. According to researchers, a set of three different genetic tests detected early-stage lung cancer between 38 and 51 percent of the time. The researchers also report that the genetic tests detected advanced-stage lung cancers with nearly 90 percent accuracy.

According to the lead author of the study, the results of the genetic testing indicate that broad genome-wide sequencing can be used to detect cancer and should be further developed as a screening aid or cancer detection tool. In some instances, it can be used to detect the early stages of curable cancers.

When tumors are discovered in the earliest stages of development, the rate of cancer survival increases significantly. A blood test that can be used to detect early cancers can be a lifesaving tool for many people.

Tumors routinely release DNA fragments, or cell-free DNA, into the bloodstream where they circulate. These analyzed DNA fragments are used by cancer doctors to determine which types of gene-based therapies are appropriate for individuals who have advanced lung cancer. The researchers of the study want to use the cell-free DNA even more to develop tests that can detect cancers as early as they can.

An attorney who practices medical malpractice may pursue financial damages on behalf of clients whose cancer was not properly diagnosed. The attending physician may be held financially liable for negligent medical treatment that resulted in a delayed diagnosis, a worsened condition or delayed treatment.