What is MCD? Your multi-cancer detection test questions, answered
Multi‑cancer detection (MCD) tests, also known as multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, are a new type of blood test being studied that are intended to help find cancer earlier. These tests have the potential to identify the presence of cancer for more than one cancer at a time, before signs or symptoms appear. Because the tests are still being developed, it can be hard to know what they are, how they work and if they might be right for you.
We’re covering the basics of MCD tests, including what they are, how they fit alongside current routine cancer screenings, what’s known about access and coverage, and some of the key questions and challenges. Our goal is to help you learn more and feel better prepared to talk with a health care provider about your options.
If I take an MCD test, is that the only cancer screening I have to do?
No. MCD tests are designed to be complementary to, not a replacement for, existing routine cancer screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies and Pap tests.
MCD tests can be given in addition to existing routine screenings to increase the opportunity to detect multiple cancers in early stages.
Cancer types that have a recommended single-cancer screening should continue to be your primary screening test for that cancer.
Are MCD tests available now? Are they covered by insurance?
Various MCD tests are being developed and clinical trials are underway. Although the tests are not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some are commercially available now by prescription through a health care provider.
Most health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not cover the MCD test at this time. Right now, people who have this test done will most likely have to pay for some or all of it out of pocket.
How does genetic testing differ from MCD?
基因检测 may be an option for those who want more information about their cancer risk. Predictive or hereditary genetic testing is performed to look for specific changes, called mutations, in your genes that could increase your risk of cancer. These tests are often done using blood samples but may be performed using saliva or other tissue. Genetic tests do not detect the absence or presence of cancer.
MCD tests use blood samples and are designed to identify the potential presence of cancer for more than one cancer at a time. If you have a positive MCD test, additional follow-up testing is necessary.
What are some outstanding questions about MCD tests?
MCD tests are a new and innovative way of screening for cancer; as with any breakthrough technology, there are questions that must be answered before they can be broadly utilized.
Questions remain about how often to take the test, how accurate they are, who is eligible, and recommended next steps following a positive result.
What should I ask my health care provider?
If you’re thinking about getting an MCD test, it can help to talk it over with a health care provider. MCD tests are still new and they may not be the right choice for everyone—or you may find this is the option you’ve been looking for. A conversation with your provider can help you understand what MCD tests can and cannot tell you and how they may fit into your overall health care routine.
These questions can help guide that conversation and ensure you have the information you need to decide what feels right for you:
- What are MCD tests and what do they look for?
- What MCD tests are available?
- Would I be a good candidate for MCD testing?
- How much does the test cost? Will insurance cover it?
- What are the possible benefits of MCD testing?
- What are the possible drawbacks of MCD testing?
- If I decide to have an MCD test, how often would I need to get the test done?
- What is the process if my MCD test is positive?
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With routine screening available for only five types of cancer, the vast majority of cancers do not have available screening tests. The hope MCD tests carry is the potential to find more cancers early—before they have spread to other parts of the body—increasing the likelihood treatment will be successful, lowering the cost of treatment and improving quality of life for patients and their caregivers.
Talk to your health care provider today to see if they are right for you.