New DNA Stool Test for Colon Cancer

The study was conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN, USA) in collaboration with Exact Laboratories (Maynard, MA, USA), the developer of the DNA test.

If further studies show similar results, the DNA test may replace fecal occult blood testing, which is reported to be inaccurate in 5-10% of cases. Also, unlike fecal occult blood testing, the DNA test can detect tumors and polyps that do not bleed. Furthermore, although the DNA test is expected to be more expensive, it could contribute to reduced health-care costs by eliminating many unnecessary colonoscopies. The study was reported in the November issue of Gastroenterology.



Related Links:
Mayo Clinic