Multitarget Stool DNA Testing for Colorectal-Cancer Screening

A stool test that measures mutant KRAS, abnormal gene methylation, and hemoglobin detected significantly more colorectal cancers than a commercial fecal immunochemical test (FIT) but had more false positive results. Colorectal cancer is a major cause of death and disease among men and women in the United States. 1 The underlying neoplastic processes of colorectal carcinogenesis lend themselves to screening. 2 Evidence supports and guidelines endorse several tests and strategies, 3 – 5 and screening for colorectal cancer has been found to be cost-effective. 5 – 7 Despite the supporting evidence, recommendations, and availability of several screening tests, a substantial proportion of the U.S. population is not up to date with screening. 8 A simple, noninvasive test with high sensitivity for both colorectal cancer and advanced precancerous lesions might increase uptake and adherence rates, which could improve . . .