Five Key Takeaways on First Blood Test for CRC Screening (Medscape)

In late July, the FDA approved Shield, the first liquid biopsy blood test for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening that meets Medicare reimbursement requirements. The article highlights five key takeaways, emphasizing that while the test might increase screening participation, it should not replace colonoscopies due to lower effectiveness and higher costs. Experts stress the need for high sensitivity and specificity in these tests to avoid false results, warning that replacing established methods with blood tests could worsen patient outcomes.