A newly developed at-home urine test could potentially help doctors catch head and neck cancers earlier, a new study suggests.
The test looks for tiny DNA fragments sloughed off by tumor cells, which pass from the bloodstream into urine through the kidneys, researchers said.
Using genetic analysis, researchers showed that the DNA fragments released by head and neck cancers are very short, and thus likely to be overlooked by current tests. The researchers then created a mail-in urine test that would detect these fragments. The test has been distributed for research purposes to patients located relatively near the University of Michigan. recurrences far earlier than would typically happen based on clinical imaging,” said co-senior study author Chad Brenner, an associate professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at the University of Michigan.
“As such, these promising results have given us the confidence to broaden the scope of the study, seeking to expanding distribution even further,” Brenner added in a university news release.Urine tests are also easier for patients to gather themselves and send in for analysis, compared to blood tests, Bhambhani added.Understanding Cancer: Metastasis, Stages of Cancer, and More
What really causes cancer? Get the facts about how cancer spreads, symptoms and signs, cancer stages, and treatment options for the most common types of cancers.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Avoid Unnecessary Biopsies: New Urine-Based Test Detects High-Grade Prostate CancerScience, Space and Technology News 2024
Read more »
UFC champ Jon Jones accused of threatening to kill woman collecting his urine for drug testJon Jones said the sample collection workers were unprofessional, but he said the surprise encounter, part of UFC's new anti-doping policy, ended amicably.
Read more »
Blood Test Might Spot Lung Damage Risk After Long COVIDFears that Long COVID patients might end up with long-term, potentially deadly lung scarring are unfounded, a new study concludes.
Read more »
New Multitarget FIT Test Improves Early Detection of Colorectal CancerA new multitarget FIT test has been developed to improve early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC). This test uses antibodies to test for hemoglobin in stool samples, as well as additional DNA, RNA, or protein biomarkers associated with CRC. Compared to the standard FIT test, the multitarget FIT test is better at detecting traces of blood in the stool, leading to more instances of CRC or other advanced lesions being uncovered. However, the DNA test also often leads to more false-positive findings.
Read more »
Robert Downey Jr. Left 'Mason Jars of Urine' on 'Zodiac' Set, David Fincher SaysDigital destination for sophisticated men & women. Live your best life with expert tips and news on health, food, sex, relationships, fashion and lifestyle.
Read more »
Teen sweat has distinct chemical make-up with notes of musk and urineTeenagers and babies produce different chemicals in their sweat, which may be why infants are generally considered to smell sweeter
Read more »