University of Essex develops blood test for bowel cancer

Researchers at the University of Essex have developed a new blood test for bowel cancer that could save lives. The test aims to detect the disease in its early stages when treatment is more effective. Traditionally, doctors use a faecal immunochemical test, also known as a poo test, for screening. The research team received funding of £165,000 from Bowel Cancer UK to support their work. Dr. Lisa Wilde from the charity emphasized that this funding would help promote earlier diagnoses of bowel cancer. The new blood test uses a DNA analysis technique that may encourage more individuals to get screened. Many people are hesitant to take the faecal test. The team, led by Dr. Vladimir Teif and Dr. Ralf Zwacka, believes this approach will make screening more accessible. Dr. Teif explained that the test looks for DNA from tumors found in blood samples. This cell-free DNA is harmless and provides important information about a person's health. Dr. Wilde noted that the goal is to ensure more people are diagnosed early when treatment is more successful. Investing in bowel cancer research is crucial for achieving this goal.