This article discusses the launch in Australia of a world-first early detection blood test for pancreatic cancer developed by BCAL Diagnostics with ClearNote Health. The test detects cancer-driving proteins and circulating tumour DNA changes in the bloodstream years before symptoms emerge.
Pancreatic cancer has one of the lowest survival rates because it is usually diagnosed too late for surgery. The article notes that survival rates rise substantially when cancer is detected early enough for surgical treatment.
The technology analyses epigenetic markers and messenger RNA associated with pancreatic tumours. Clinical validation data reportedly showed sensitivity rates of 82.6% for stage 1 and 2 pancreatic cancer detection, with a false-positive rate of 2.5%.
Experts including Professor Michelle Stewart and Professor Jaswinder Samra describe the test as a major breakthrough that could improve early diagnosis, treatment opportunities, and survival outcomes. The article also references ongoing clinical trials including the SAFE-D trial in the UK and the Australian Pancreatic Cancer High-Risk Screening (APRISE) program.
The test is initially targeted toward high-risk individuals such as those with family histories of pancreatic cancer, BRCA mutations, type 2 diabetes, or chronic pancreatitis. BCAL plans to launch a dedicated telehealth service to support patients undergoing early detection consultations.
