Britain starts world’s largest blood test for 50 types of cancer

LONDON, Sept. 13 (Reuters) – Britain’s National Health Service will begin the world’s largest trial of Grail Inc. (GRAL.O) Galleri flagship blood test that can be used to detect more than 50 types of cancer before symptoms appear.

The Galleri test examines DNA in a patient’s blood to determine if it is from cancer cells. Earlier diagnosis of cancers leads to dramatic increases in survival rates.

The NHS said it wanted to recruit 140,000 volunteers in England to see how well the test worked in a randomized controlled trial. Half of the participants will immediately be screened for blood with the Galleri test.

“We need to carefully study the Galleri test to see if it can significantly reduce the number of cancers diagnosed at a late stage,” said Peter Sasieni, professor of cancer prevention at King’s College London.

“The test could be a game-changer for the early detection of cancer and we are excited to lead this important research. “

Lung cancer is by far the most common cause of cancer death in the UK, accounting for around a fifth of all cancer deaths. Lung, bowel, prostate and breast cancers account for 45% of cancer deaths in the UK, according to the NHS.

American Society for Life Sciences Illumina Inc (ILMN.O) announced last month that it had completed the Grail acquisition for $ 7.1 billion. Illumina said it will operate Grail separately from its existing business.

Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Mike Harrison

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