Blood test cancer screening should form part of mainstream genetic testing – Callaghan

A publicly available blood test capable of detecting over 50 types of cancer would greatly enhance the impact of genetic testing, and ultimately help save more lives, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Catherine Callaghan is calling on the Hereditary Cancer Steering group to include Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) testing to the model of care.

Deputy Callaghan explained: “NGS relies on tissue biopsies and in essence, a simple blood test can detect multiple cancers simultaneously, including inherited cancer risks. This test is available through private healthcare providers, but it comes at a significant cost, so is prohibitive for a huge portion of the population.

“However, in 2022, the HSE launched Ireland’s national strategy for accelerating genetic and genomic medicine, which spells out the need to bring genomics into routine care. This strategy emphasises improved disease prevention, diagnostics and more targeted treatments for patients and families across the country.

“In 2024, the HSE established the National Genetics and Genomics office to ensure we can retain and expand accredited testing. The next logical step to build on this should be to roll out blood-based NGSs.”

Deputy Callaghan went on to say that a hereditary cancer model of care is expected to be rolled out in the Autumn in a number of cancer centres and this will be a big step forward in offering genetic testing and pre-counselling to those at most familial risk. In addition, funding has been provided by Government for additional healthcare staff with a special interest in genetics, including two consultant medical oncologists.

“A genomic test directory for cancer is constantly being developed and tests for adult cancer, including colorectal, melanoma, lung and ovarian cancers have also been developed, but we need to consistently expand accredited testing and NGS blood testing has potential to be a game changer here,” Deputy Callaghan continued.

“No family in Ireland has been untouched by cancer. But innovations in science and healthcare bring hope every day. We all know early detection gives us the best chance to deal with this disease and to be able to offer patients better outcomes and brighter futures. To fully deliver on the promise of genomic medicine, we must make NGS the standard platform for cancer testing.”