Biomarker approaches to the development of cancer screening tests: can cancer blood tests become a routine health check-up?

Abstract

Cancer is a deadly disease associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. The vast majority of cancers are identified at a late stage, when therapy is rarely successful Morbidity and mortality associated with cancer can be reduced with improved prevention and early detection activities. Identification of cancer biomarkers is one of the most promising approaches for the detection of early-stage malignant or even premalignant lesions with a simple blood test. A large number of research teams are investigating the role of biomarkers in cancer detection and progression, making the dream of early and painless cancer detection become a reality.