A team of researchers from the biotech firm Delfi Diagnostics has created a machine learning-based blood testing tech that is capable of detecting lung cancer at an early stage. In their study published in the journal Nature Communications, researchers have outlined how the AI tool can analyze genome-wide cell-free DNA fragmentation (cfDNAs) profiles, nucleic acid fragments in the bloodstream.
This can indicate the presence of tumor cells, with high degrees of accuracy. The tool was able to find 90 percent of cancer cases out of 800 individuals that were tested for the disease. The team is hoping that the tech will allow the detection of more cases of lung cancer in its early stages, which could save countless lives.
Easier than conventional methods
“These results suggest that the Delfi lung cancer screening technology could help reduce lung cancer deaths by offering a convenient, high-performing test to people who are eligible,” said Peter Bach, Delfi CMO.
“We have already begun enrollment of a 1,700-patient, prospective, case-control study to generate the clinical evidence that would underpin a commercial lung screening test,” he added.
Besides, the blood test is also easier to administer in comparison to low-dose CT scans (LDCT), enabling healthcare workers to screen more individuals in a short time. Using AI for detecting tumor cells could be a great approach. It isn’t the first time AI has been used to detect cancer. There are systems that are capable of detecting colon and breast cancer.
Battle against cancer
Previously, Researchers developed a blood test known as Galleri that can detect more than 50 types of cancer. These are the types of cancer that usually go undetected during their early stages. The test could be very helpful in the treatment of the disease, especially when they are detected at an early stage, saving countless lives.
The test is commercially available in the US (excluding New York) and can be ordered by health care workers for patients over 50 years, or those who are at risk of cancer. It is believed that Galleri can become a go-to diagnostic tool in the coming years.
