Journal: Annual review of medicine
The publication (DOI: 10.1146/annurev-med-043024-032619) reviews advances in noninvasive colorectal cancer (CRC) screening tests for average-risk individuals.
Beyond the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which remains the current noninvasive standard balancing sensitivity and specificity, new FDA-approved tests include:
- Multitarget stool DNA and RNA assays
- Blood-based tests detecting cell-free DNA alterations
These newer tests improve CRC detection sensitivity compared to FIT but generally have lower specificity. Sensitivity is consistent across age groups (50 years).
Stool-based multitarget tests show better sensitivity for advanced adenomas than FIT, whereas blood tests have reduced adenoma detection.
Given gaps in screening uptake, earlier screening age recommendations, and limitations of colonoscopy access, these noninvasive options may help increase screening participation and address existing barriers.