New blood-based technologies, known as multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, are entering the market and can identify multiple cancers early and simultaneously. These tests detect signals found in DNA that cancer cells shed into the bloodstream. Interest in MCED tests is growing because of their potential to detect more cancers earlier and lead to better patient outcomes. 

In this report, we examine how early detection of cancer through MCED tests may change the landscape for cancer research and treatments. The exploration of MCED technology builds on FasterCures’ work to define and measure the performance of the biomedical ecosystem to address patient needs and improve outcomes. This specific focus on oncology allows for deeper analysis of a relatively mature segment of the ecosystem to identify solutions to persistent challenges.