Precision-Driven Blood Test for Cancer: Non-Invasive Cancer Screening in LA

You may have heard at least once in your life that early detection saves lives. This phrase seems to be highly appropriate when it comes to cancer. Identifying cancer before it progresses increases the potential for a successful outcome and improved survival. Blood tests for cancer are validated and accredited by organizations involving American pathologists, ensuring high-quality standards and regulatory oversight.

In the majority of cases, cancer signifies no symptoms until very late, when the survival rate is lower, and treatment options are limited, and it becomes deadly. To address this concern, it is recommended to follow routine screening tests that can detect cancer earlier and potentially save your life. These blood tests can reveal high levels of certain chemicals or markers in your blood; what the blood test shows may indicate that cancer is present.

However, test results may require further testing, such as imaging or biopsies, to confirm if cancer is present. Doctors and your health care team play a crucial role in interpreting test results and guiding next steps, including more tests or other tests if needed. While these tests can increase the number of cancers detected, they are not yet available for most types of cancer, but research is ongoing to expand their use to healthy people for early detection. It is important to understand that a false positive, false positive result, or false negative result can occur, so follow-up procedures are essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate cancer treatment.

At My Concierge MD in Los Angeles, we offer physician-led, tailored and comprehensive blood tests for cancer that detect early risk and hidden symptoms. These tests support long-term wellness and protect you and your loved ones from a disastrous and deadly disease.

Introduction to Cancer Screening

Cancer screening plays a vital role in catching cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Today, a range of screening tests including advanced blood tests are available to help detect cancer cells or abnormal changes in the body before symptoms appear. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, such as the Galleri test and the Cancerguard test, represent a new era in cancer screening. These innovative blood tests can identify multiple types of cancer, including prostate cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer, from just a single blood sample. By detecting cancer signals early, these tests offer the potential to transform how we approach cancer diagnosis and treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, early detection through screening tests can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates, making regular cancer screening an essential part of proactive health care.

What are Cancer Blood Tests?

Routine blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), provide an overall health baseline. Expert physicians can identify abnormalities and changes through subsequent blood tests compared with the results of the initial complete blood count (CBC) and may require further evaluation. This enables early detection, helping to address serious health concerns before symptoms worsen.

Blood tests for cancer look for biomarkers. These tests are specialized diagnostic evaluations. Cancer reveals its presence through cancerous cells that produce a type of substance known as biomarkers. Blood tests can also detect chemicals produced by cancer cells, which serve as important indicators in the diagnostic process. Your body can also make them in response to cancer. These indicators include

1. Tumor markers
2. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA)
3. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA)
4. Protein changes
5. Genetic mutations associated with cancer risk
6. Inflammatory markers

Blood tests can help diagnose cancer by detecting these biomarkers and chemicals, but more tests are often needed to confirm the diagnosis. Genetic changes associated with certain cancers can be identified through these tests, which can inform cancer treatment decisions and help assess hereditary cancer risk. However, other tests, such as imaging or biopsies, may be required to confirm the presence of cancer and to provide a definitive diagnosis.

Blood tests can detect certain types of cancer, but not all types of cancer can be identified through blood tests. Other advanced lab methods are utilized to detect certain types of cancer. We offer top-notch diagnostic technology, high-grade supervision, and personalized medical guidance for proactive health management. Blood-based cancer testing plays a vital role in prevention, offering clear solutions and support for people who are at risk.

How Cancer Blood Tests Work

Cancer blood tests, often referred to as liquid biopsies, are designed to detect the presence of cancer by analyzing a simple blood sample for abnormal DNA, proteins, or other biomarkers associated with cancer cells. These tests can identify fragments of cancer cells that have entered the bloodstream, even before clinical signs or symptoms develop. The development and use of these tests are regulated by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), ensuring that each test meets rigorous standards for accuracy and reliability.

Researchers are continually refining the performance characteristics of these tests, making them increasingly precise in detecting abnormal cells and proteins linked to different cancers.

Types of Cancer Blood Tests Available at My Concierge MD

My Concierge MD offers personalized diagnostics based on age, symptoms, risk factors and medical history. Here are the details of the common types of blood tests for cancer that we offer:

CBC (Complete Blood Count)

This test measures the levels of different blood cells and can help detect abnormalities that may indicate cancer. A complete blood count is often used as a supplementary test following positive cancer screening results to help confirm or rule out a cancer diagnosis.

Tumor Marker Tests

We perform tumour marker tests that help evaluate the level of particular molecules released by cancer cells into the bloodstream. Tumor marker tests measure high levels of specific chemicals in the blood that may be produced by cancer cells. These markers are available to detect different types of cancer, such as

1. CA-125 assesses ovarian cancer.
2. CEA, also abbreviated as Carcinoembryonic Antigen, provides guidance about colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers.
3. Prostate-Specific Antigen, also known as PSA, helps detect prostate cancer.
4. AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) detects liver cancer, whereas CA 19-9 helps in assessing pancreatic cancer.
5. Breast cancer can be detected by CA 15-3 & CA 27-29 tumour markers

These tests primarily support the identification of the type of cancer, aid in early detection, and facilitate monitoring of treatment. They also help evaluate recurrence risk.

Liquid Biopsy

A non-invasive and innovative test that is specifically designed to detect tiny fragments of cancer DNA that circulate in the bloodstream. Liquid Biopsy can also be referred to as circulating tumour DNA tests, which utilize cutting-edge technology to assess various types of cancer simultaneously.

Liquid Biopsy is often ideal for high-risk individuals with a family history of genetic predispositions or cancer to avoid potential risk. It can also be utilized by people who seek early detection, as it catches cancer at early stages and leads to successful intervention, as this test does not let the cancer get worse.

Liquid biopsy can detect genetic changes associated with certain cancers, which can help guide cancer treatment decisions and inform personalized therapy options.

Patients who require accurate treatment guidance should opt for liquid Biopsy as this test ensures tailored treatment plans by detecting particular cancer markers. It assures patients of high-grade and targeted therapeutic approaches because of its specificity. Circulating Tumour DNA tests are ideal for patients who have recovered from cancer, as the signs of recurrence of cancer can also be tracked with this test.

Genomic and Genetic Cancer Testing

These tests analyze DNA to identify inherited mutations that may increase the risk for certain cancers. Genetic cancer tests identify genetic changes that may increase the risk for certain cancers, helping to inform preventative measures and guide clinical decisions.

My Concierge MD assesses hereditary cancer mutations using advanced panels. These tests identify genetic changes that may increase the risk for certain cancers. These hereditary cancer mutations may include BRCA1 & BRCA2, TP53, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 (Lynch syndrome genes), APC and other colorectal cancer genes. People having a family history of any cancer should not neglect the risk factor and prefer early detection and intervention if needed.

Hereditary Cancer Testing

This test identifies genetic changes inherited from family members that may lead to a higher likelihood of developing certain cancers. It is especially important for individuals with a family history of cancer, as it can help guide preventative strategies and inform cancer treatment options.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

The CMP, also known as a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, helps assess organ function, including parameters such as hormonal profiles, liver enzymes, and kidney filtration rates. CMP also provides an assessment of metabolic health and electrolyte levels. This type of analysis helps detect subtle abnormalities that can lead to cancers of the liver, kidney, and endocrine system. It enables early detection and intervention.

Immune System Markers

Markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), are also explored by our My Concierge MD. These indicators help physicians understand abnormal immune activity associated with the development of cancer.

Who Are The Ideal Candidates for Cancer Blood Tests?

Comprehensive screening is recommended for everyone, but blood tests are particularly suggested for individuals with certain conditions.

1. Family history of any cancer
2. 40-plus age and desire proactive screening for early detection
3. Personal medical history that indicates an enhanced risk
4. Unexplained yet persistent symptoms, including pain, weight fluctuations, and heavy fatigue
5. Recovered from cancer but requires ongoing monitoring
6. Desires a preventive and comprehensive wellness evaluation

If you own any of these, you need cancer screening without any delay.

Emerging research also suggests that blood tests for cancer may be useful for healthy people who do not have symptoms, as a way to enable early detection.

Benefits of Cancer Blood Tests

The name of cancer is enough to make you feel scared, but the risks can be lowered when you make yourself a priority. Let’s examine the benefits of blood tests for cancer detection.

Advanced blood tests like the Galleri test have been shown to increase the number of cancers detected in clinical studies, sometimes doubling the cancers detected when combined with standard screenings. However, these tests are not yet available for most types of cancer, as many cancers still lack established screening tests. Test results from these blood tests can help guide further diagnostic and treatment decisions, but they are not definitive diagnoses and should be followed up with additional clinical evaluation.

Early Detection

Prevention is always better than cure, and prevention is only possible with early detection. Technology has become remarkably advanced nowadays, allowing you to catch risk and warning signs before symptoms begin to appear. Early detection is possible because a blood test shows abnormal markers or signals, such as tumor markers or genetic material, even before symptoms develop. Even the physicians can suggest a variety of treatment alternatives with early detection. Above all, you do not regret for your lifespan!

Tailored Assessment

Every patient is unique in their genetics, family and medical history, and lifestyle; hence, everyone deserves a tailored evaluation when it comes to imaging and treatment plans.

Convenient and Non-Invasive

Blood is simply drawn by trained healthcare professionals, which enables physicians to obtain more precise diagnostic information. The method is highly convenient and painless, but the results speak volumes.

Cutting Edge Screening

At My Concierge MD, high-sensitivity biomarker panels and next-generation liquid biopsy tools are available that go beyond traditional clinical testing, ensuring precision and accuracy in your results. All laboratory tests are accredited and validated by organizations involving American pathologists, ensuring high standards of quality and reliability.

Importance of Shared Decision-Making

When considering cancer screening, especially with new options like MCED tests, shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare provider is essential. This collaborative approach allows patients to weigh the benefits and limitations of screening tests, taking into account their personal risk factors, family history, and overall health. The American Cancer Society encourages open discussions about cancer screening, including the use of advanced tests to ensure that each patient receives care tailored to their unique needs. For example, someone with a family history of breast cancer may want to explore the advantages and potential drawbacks of MCED tests with their healthcare provider, ensuring that their screening plan aligns with their health goals and values.

Access to Cancer Screening

Ensuring access to cancer screening is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Unfortunately, barriers such as insurance coverage and financial constraints can prevent some patients from receiving recommended screening tests. The National Cancer Institute and other organizations are actively working to reduce these disparities and expand access to innovative tests. Some insurance plans, now cover the cost of certain MCED tests for eligible patients, and financial assistance programs are available to help offset expenses. By improving access to cancer screening, more patients can benefit from early detection and timely treatment, leading to better health outcomes.

Why Should You Choose My Concierge MD for Cancer Blood Test?

Cancer screening is far more than just a regular test, which gives a heavy toll on nerves emotionally. But My Concierge MD provides emotional stability by guiding with a comprehensive approach that offers confidence and clarity.

The team of doctors and the health care team at My Concierge MD work together to interpret blood test for cancer results and guide patients through cancer treatment options if needed.

Tailored Consultation

Our healthcare providers at My Concierge MD conduct a brief consultation to discuss your medication use, previous testing, family history, lifestyle, and any personal concerns you may have. Doctors and the health care team collaborate to ensure each patient receives a personalized assessment. This ensures a personalized plan to meet your specific needs.

Physician-Led Care

We have board-certified specialists with broad experience and specialization in preventive and diagnostic care. All laboratory testing is overseen by accredited professionals, including American pathologists, to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. They meticulously supervise all testing, ensuring high standards of accuracy and care throughout your journey.

Next-Generation Diagnostic Lab

Our collaboration with high-level accredited laboratories specializes in tumour marker analysis, liquid biopsy technology, genetic sequencing, and precision oncology diagnostics. These diagnostic labs are accredited by organizations involving American pathologists, ensuring the highest standards of laboratory practice. Hence, you have access to modern tests that are not typically available through standard primary care settings.

Result Interpretation

Our expert physicians thoroughly review your test results with you, explaining every critical factor, including indications of markers, follow-up steps, risk levels, preventive lifestyle approaches, and whether you require additional imaging. Test results are carefully reviewed to determine if further testing is needed to confirm whether cancer is present. If a false positive or false positive result occurs, you may need more tests or other tests to rule out cancer. Conversely, a false negative result could mean cancer is present but not detected, so ongoing monitoring or further evaluation may be recommended. Your health care team will guide you through any additional steps required based on the test results.

Easy to Approach

You can contact us at any time to schedule an appointment so that we can proceed with your regular tests and blood tests for cancer. My Concierge MD will design a personalized long-term prevention plan and outline follow-up steps.

FAQS

Can we detect cancer early by performing blood tests?

Yes, for many cases, we can detect cancer early. Advanced blood tests help identify genetic mutations, tumour markers, and circulating cancer DNA. Patients may need further tests if required.

How long do we have to wait for the results?

Test complexity decides the turnaround times. A genetic or liquid biopsy may take longer than a week, whereas some results may be available within a week.

Are blood tests for cancer painless?

Yes, we have an experienced staff that draws blood correctly and ensures a comfortable and smooth process required for blood tests.

What if I don’t show any symptoms? Do I still need to follow these tests?

Yes! You can still have cancer even if you don’t see any symptoms until the advanced stages arrive. Hence, preventive screening is most effective for early detection of cancer.

What if my tests indicate an abnormal result?

Our healthcare providers will supervise follow-up steps, which may include additional screenings, imaging, or referrals to oncology collaborators for further assessment.