Blood test to detect colon cancer could move a step closer to FDA approval in the US

To screen for colon and rectal cancers, a simple blood test could become more broadly available. A biotechnology company has applied for FDA approval of a blood test called Shield to screen for early signs of colorectal cancer. If approved, it would be the first blood screening test for colorectal cancer that meets requirements for Medicare reimbursement. The test would be another noninvasive option to boost the number of people who complete recommended screenings. The test detects tumor DNA in blood samples and has shown promising results in detecting colorectal cancer.