Dr. Etzioni can speak specifically to the benefits and challenges of different tests and how best to educate patients about the options available. Screening is not "one size fits all," according to Dr. Etzioni, and depends on family history, previous abnormal findings and other factors.
As colorectal cancers grow, on average, more slowly, and have a precancerous phase, there is a longer window of opportunity for screening. According to Dr. Etzioni, "if you catch colorectal cancer before it becomes a true cancer, if you catch it in its precancerous phase, you can actually eliminate it."
New forms of testing, such as home testing kits, seek to increase the ease-of-use, accuracy and cost-effectiveness of cancer screening. Liquid biopsies are also being evaluated as a less invasive option for screening that would rely on a blood test to detect certain forms of cancer.
At Fred Hutch, Dr. Etzioni's research uses mathematical and computer modeling to assess the impact of screening on cancer outcomes.
RSS