- A new AI-powered blood test, SPOT-MAS, has shown 90% sensitivity and 92% specificity in detecting lung cancer, offering a non-invasive alternative.
- Gene Solutions plans to introduce the test in early 2025, potentially improving early detection and survival rates, especially among non-smokers.
A new blood test, SPOT-MAS, has demonstrated promising results in detecting lung cancer, offering a potential breakthrough in early diagnosis. Developed by Gene Solutions, the test uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and has shown 90% sensitivity and 92% specificity in clinical studies.
This advancement could provide a non-invasive and affordable alternative for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals who may not meet current screening criteria.
Lung cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases to detect early, especially among non-smokers who often go undiagnosed until later stages. While low-dose CT (LDCT) scans are the primary screening tool for high-risk populations, including heavy smokers, access to these scans is limited by cost and availability. Additionally, concerns about radiation exposure mean routine screening is not recommended for lower-risk individuals.
Recent studies suggest current screening guidelines may miss a significant number of lung cancer cases. Research indicates that over 50% of lung cancer cases in never-smokers go undetected under existing eligibility criteria. Women, particularly in Southeast Asia, appear to be disproportionately affected, with 83% of female lung cancer patients in the region identified as never-smokers.
Moreover, non-smokers are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, and approximately one-third of lung cancer-related deaths occur in individuals who have never smoked.
Gene Solutions plans to introduce the test to clinical practice in early 2025 across Asia. Experts believe that integrating ctDNA tests with existing LDCT screening could enhance diagnostic accuracy, particularly in cases where CT scans yield inconclusive results, such as small lung nodules classified under LUNG-RADS.
Speaking at a recent event in Singapore on personalized cancer care, Dr. Nguyen Hoai Nghia, Founder of Gene Solutions, stated:
"This technology represents a paradigm shift in lung cancer screening, particularly for underserved populations. By harnessing the power of ctDNA and AI, we aim to make blood-based cancer screening tests more accurate and more affordable, hence supporting more early detection and effective treatment outcomes."
With lung cancer being a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, advancements in AI-driven blood tests could provide a critical tool for early detection, potentially improving outcomes for high-risk and underserved populations.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
