A “breakthrough” test that uses dried blood samples could detect prostate cancer in 15 minutes or less, according to scientists at Aston University in Wales. This new method analyses crystal-like structures in dehydrated blood, providing a non-invasive technique to detect prostate cancer with up to 90% accuracy before symptoms appear. Professor Igor Meglinski from the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies stated that this innovation opens new avenues for cancer diagnosis and monitoring, marking significant progress in personalised medicine and oncology.
Presently, there is no national screening programme for prostate cancer, and the standard blood test measuring levels of a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) lacks sufficient accuracy. Additional tests like rectal exams and tissue biopsies are often required for diagnosis, which can be uncomfortable and invasive. The study published in Scientific Reports involved analysing 108 dry blood smear samples from both healthy volunteers and individuals with prostate cancer. Researchers used a technique called polarisation-based image reconstruction to examine protein structures and changes in their 3D shape to differentiate between healthy and cancerous samples.
The entire process, including drying time, takes up to 15 minutes, with a reported 90% accuracy rate for early prostate cancer diagnosis. Professor Meglinski emphasised the potential of the test in revolutionising cancer diagnosis, especially given that prostate cancer accounts for nearly 10% of cancer deaths in men. Detecting the disease earlier and more accurately could significantly improve outcomes and survival rates for patients. The new technique’s reliance on blood samples instead of invasive biopsies makes it less traumatic and risky for patients, though further large-scale clinical trials are necessary to validate its potential.
Dr. Matthew Hobbs, director of research at Prostate Cancer UK, highlighted the importance of developing improved tests for prostate cancer, as many diagnoses occur when the cancer is already advanced and incurable. However, he noted that additional research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this new blood test. The hope is that advancements like this will lead to better outcomes for individuals with prostate cancer, ultimately saving lives.