A fresh approach to blood tests could help doctors identify cancer sooner, improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is the first to use this new method. Researchers from the University of Exeter developed an algorithm that helps analyze blood tests more effectively. It looks at raised platelet levels in a more personalized way, alerting doctors to any potential issues.
Typically, blood tests include a platelet count. A high count can sometimes indicate certain cancers, like lung or bowel cancer. However, doctors often overlook factors like age and gender when interpreting these results. This new approach aims to change that.
Professor Sarah Bailey from the University of Exeter believes this could save lives. She mentioned that GPs already know a high platelet count can signal cancer. This study gives them better guidance on when to take action.
The plan is to start testing this new method in five medical centers in Devon. The research team estimates it could flag around 500 patients with high platelet counts each year. Out of those, about 20 might have cancer that could be caught earlier.
When a patient has a blood test, the results go to a hospital lab. In Devon, the RDUH team processes around 500,000 blood tests annually. If a patient has a high platelet count, the GP will be notified with clear next steps for further investigation.
Professor Tim McDonald from RDUH says this research is a win-win for cancer diagnosis. It’s easy to add to routine tests, and it could help GPs catch cancer earlier, leading to better outcomes.
The pilot program will run for two years, with plans for expansion. If successful, this method could help flag 10,000 patients each year before their cancer diagnosis. Recognizing these early signs could lead to quicker diagnoses and improved patient care. The research paper detailing this study is published in Cancers.
