Urine test can spot more than nine in 10 bladder cancers

More than 300,000 cystoscopies are carried out each year in the United Kingdom, and significant waiting lists persist in certain regions. While the urine test does not replace cystoscopy, it can help clinicians flag patients who are at higher risk and merit urgent investigation rather than routine scheduling. An NHS evaluation showed that the Galeas urine assay detected 92 % of bladder cancer cases. A negative result corresponded to a greater than 99 % probability that the individual did not have the disease. The test analyses genetic material shed into urine by bladder tumours and was initially devised at the University of Birmingham with support from Cancer Research UK (CRUK). It screens for over 450 DNA mutations linked to bladder cancer across 23 genes. Prof Richard Bryan, co‑author of the study and affiliated with Birmingham University, remarked, “after spending years processing and evaluating the science, it was breathtaking to spot “very promising aboriginal performance” successful a ample real-world diligent population.” Under a licensing arrangement, Nonacus has commercialised the test and returns a share of revenues to the university and CRUK. Michelle Mitchell of CRUK stated, “Too many people are waiting longer than they should for a bladder cancer diagnosis, and it's essential that we find ways to tackle this problem.” She added, “It's early days for this test and further research is needed, but it's crucial that we continue to find faster and less invasive ways to help diagnose or rule out cancer.” Bladder cancer occurs more frequently in men over the age of 60, with haematuria being the principal warning sign. The severity of the disease depends on tumour size and whether it has metastasised. Early detection and timely treatment improve survival outcomes.