Cancer: Test could make it easier to detect oesophageal cancer earlier
A new screening test for oesophageal cancer could dramatically improve people's chances of surviving the disease, according to recent findings from Cancer Research UK.
In a study published in the British Journal of Cancer, scientists working for Cancer Research UK unveiled a new way of diagnosing oesophageal cancer, which could make it much easier to detect.
Oesophageal cancer, which affects the food pipe, is often hard to discover in its early stages because of the lack of symptoms.
However, scientists have discovered that using a protein found in fluid taken from a person's oesophagus could help with early diagnosis.
The test works by identifying levels of the Mcm5 protein, which belongs to a family of proteins, called minichromosome maintenance (MCM). They are known to be good markers of uncontrolled cell growth - a typical sign of cancer.
After analysing samples from 40 patients at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, there are now plans to take the test through a larger-scale trial.
Dr Stephen Middleton, who conducted the clinical trial, said: "Our pilot study has shown that the Mcm5 test has many advantages over the methods doctors currently use to detect oesophageal cancer."
The test would be much less invasive than the endoscopic tests currently used to regularly check the oesophageal lining of patients who have high risk of developing cancer, making it safer and more convenient for patients. If large-scale trials prove the test's effectiveness, it could enter use within five years.
Professor Gareth Williams, who led the research group, highlighted the significance of a simple test to detect the cancer.
"Early diagnosis is the single most important factor for improving survival prospects for patients," he said.
