It’s impossible not to be touched by cancer. Almost everyone knows someone close to their heart who has suffered from the disease. As with many ailments, early detection is crucial in diagnosing and treating cancer, but as cancer is not “one disease” but many under one umbrella, this can be difficult. Some varieties don’t show symptoms until late in the disease’s progression, and some rare types can be more difficult to screen for.
Improved blood testing is changing that. In the fight against cancer, recent advancements in blood tests that screen through cell-free DNA (cfDNA) are revolutionizing the field. One of the most promising developments is the Galleri® multi-cancer early detection test from GRAIL, which can detect multiple types of cancer from a single blood sample. Here’s what you need to know about this cutting-edge screening method.
The Galleri® Test: A game-changer in cancer detection
The Galleri® test analyzes cfDNA in the blood to identify patterns associated with multiple types of cancer. cfDNA is a type of DNA shed by some cancer cells as they die, which contains unique markers that tie it to a specific organ system. Finding it in the bloodstream can help doctors focus next steps not only in testing for cancer but targeting which specific cancer to test for. The Galleri® test can detect more than 50 types of cancer, including pancreatic and ovarian cancers.
- How It Works: The test involves a simple blood draw. The sample is then analyzed using advanced DNA sequencing and machine learning to detect signs that cancer may be present. If the signs are present, your doctor would order additional testing to confirm.
- Types of Cancer Detected: The Galleri® test can identify common ones like breast, lung, and colorectal cancer, as well as rarer types that often go undetected until later stages. Cancers that do not shed cfDNA (like brain cancer) can’t be screened through a Galleri® test.
Considerations for Testing
- Eligibility: The Galleri® test is particularly recommended for adults aged 50 and older or those at higher risk of cancer due to family history or other factors.
- Accuracy and Follow-Up: While the Galleri® test is highly advanced, it isn’t a way to diagnose cancer by itself. If a cancer signal is detected, further testing is required to confirm the presence and type of cancer.
- Coverage and Cost: At this time, the Galleri® test may not be covered by all health plans. It’s advisable to check with your health plan about coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs. As the first health plan in Michigan to offer Galleri® testing, Priority Health gives PriorityMedicareSM Thrive and PriorityMedicareSM Thrive Plus plan members the early detection screening.** Request more information here: https://www.priorityhealth.com/landing/mapd
The Outlook of Early Detection
The future of cancer screening looks promising with the advent of tests like Galleri®. These tools offer an efficient and non-invasive way to screen for multiple cancers simultaneously, potentially catching them at an earlier, more treatable stage.
By staying informed and discussing tests like Galleri® with your healthcare provider, you can take proactive steps towards early detection, better health outcomes and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Take the first step today. Go to our website to learn more about Galleri® testing, check your eligibility and schedule a screening if it’s right for you.
Priority Health has HMO-POS and PPO plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Priority Health Medicare depends on contract renewal.
*Galleri is a registered trademark of GRAIL, LLC.
**The Galleri® test is available by prescription only. Galleri® does not detect a signal for all cancers and not all cancers can be detected in the blood. False positive and false negative results do occur. Galleri® is a screening test and does not diagnose cancer. Diagnostic testing is needed to confirm cancer. The Galleri® test identifies DNA in the bloodstream shed by cancer cells and does not predict future genetic risk for cancer. The Galleri® test should be used in addition to healthcare provider recommended screening tests. Eligibility rules apply.
***Cost sharing may apply
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