New home screening test for oral cancer has 90% success rate
A new home screening test, which can detect oral cancer, has a 90% success rate.
The saliva test, which is now available in the US, uses artificial intelligence to detect the symptoms of oral cancer. The new technology has been classed as ‘breakthrough advice’ by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the team behind it is currently seeking official FDA approval. The test is called Cancerdetect.
During testing trials, researchers analysed 945 samples, including 80 samples from people who had oral cancer and 12 from individuals with throat cancer. The data was used as part of a machine learning training model.
If the FDA approves the Cancerdetect test, it will be covered by insurance providers in the US, making it much more accessible to patients. The test is currently available to buy.
It is thought that the saliva test could have a huge impact globally, with oral cancer rates rising. In the UK, the number of cases has doubled in the last decade and there are fears there could be a sharp increase in cases linked to a shortage of routine dental appointments since 2020.
Dentists look for changes in the mouth and potential warning signs during routine check-ups. With fewer patients attending examinations, many cases could go undetected. A simple, quick home test could make an incredible difference to oral cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment in the future.
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