"Advancements in Colon Cancer Screening via Blood and Stool Tests"
New colon cancer screening options, including stool tests like Cologuard and FIT, and upcoming blood tests, are providing less invasive and potentially more accessible alternatives to traditional colonoscopies. These tests require less preparation, may be less expensive, and could increase screening rates among Americans. The DNA blood test called Shield, developed by Guardant Health, is awaiting FDA approval and could be prescribed as early as 2024. While colonoscopies have the highest detection rate, these new tests aim to encourage early detection, which significantly improves survival rates. However, experts caution that blood tests may not detect precancerous polyps as effectively as colonoscopies. The medical community and insurers are closely watching these developments, with the potential for broader coverage if these tests meet performance thresholds.