DPYD testing for chemotherapy is not standard in U.S

A mutation in the DPYD gene can cause severe reactions to certain chemotherapy drugs, like fluorouracil. In the U.S., an estimated 700-1,400 patients die each year from toxicity related to these treatments, often without knowing they carry the mutation. Advocates are pushing for universal DPYD testing before chemotherapy, similar to practices in the EU, UK, and Canada. Testing costs about $300 and can prevent costly and traumatic treatment complications, but the U.S. has not yet adopted this as standard practice. Some medical professionals argue that testing can delay treatment and is not universally covered by insurance. However, institutions like DukeHealth are implementing testing, and there is a growing movement toward making DPYD testing standard in the U.S.