Colorectal Cancer

FDA Approves First Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, making early detection critical for improving outcomes . In July 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first blood-based test, called Shield, for colorectal cancer screening in average-risk adults aged 45 and older . This approval marks a significant advancement in CRC screening, offering a noninvasive alternative that may increase screening adherence among those reluctant to undergo colonoscopy or stool-based tests .