The new era of cancer screening: What ‘Multi-Cancer Early Detection’ really means

2026-03-04T15:15:00

(BPT) – For years, routine screening recommendations have been limited to four cancers — breast, cervical, colorectal, and high-risk lung cancer — leaving nearly 70% of annual cancer cases and deaths with no recommended screening options.^1,2,3,4 This unmet need leaves many adults vulnerable to cancers that are often found too late for effective treatment.² Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) testing introduces a new way to get ahead of cancer.

The Cancerguard^® test is a simple MCED blood test that analyzes DNA and protein biomarkers and helps detect over 50 cancer types and subtypes,^1,5 supporting other standard screenings by broadening types of cancers that can be found, even at early stages. The Cancerguard test can detect some of the deadliest cancers, such as pancreatic, ovarian, liver, and esophageal — even before symptoms appear.^1,2,5

Why early detection matters

Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States with roughly 600,000 deaths each year.² Early detection is one of the most effective tools we have to help improve those outcomes. MCED testing can detect signals of cancer in the body and provide insight before symptoms even appear. Finding cancer early, before it spreads, may help increase the chances of treating and potentially surviving cancer.^1,2

How the Cancerguard test works

Cancerguard is the only marketed test of its kind that uses a multi-biomarker class approach. It searches for cancer signals within several types of biological markers, not just one. With one blood sample, the test analyzes both methylated DNA markers and protein biomarkers that can indicate the presence of cancer. By combining these biomarkers, the Cancerguard test casts a wider net for detecting cancer in its early stages, including some of the deadliest types.^1,2

What you can expect with Cancerguard testing

Once a healthcare provider places your Cancerguard test order, you can schedule your blood draw where it works best for you — at your doctor’s office, an approved lab or health system partner, or even in the comfort of your home. Once the sample is received at the lab, most people will get their results in about two weeks.

The Cancerguard test is designed for reliability and features a 97.4% specificity.¹ This limits false positive results to help ensure patients receive clear, dependable information.¹ If no cancer signal is detected, you should continue with screenings recommended by your provider and can consider annual MCED testing with the Cancerguard test for expanded cancer screening. If a cancer signal is detected, review your test results with your healthcare provider to plan your next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not confirm that you have cancer. Imaging (radiology) scans and other medical tests are typically needed to locate and confirm a cancer diagnosis.

While a positive result can feel overwhelming, Exact Sciences provides support, including care navigation resources that help guide patients through next steps with comprehensive support systems. In addition, Exact Sciences offers an imaging reimbursement program which reimburses up to $6,000 for non-covered imaging costs to help reduce the financial impact for eligible patients.*

* Patients must apply. Eligibility depends on program qualifications, is not guaranteed, and is subject to change. The program will not reimburse any covered imaging costs, including copay, coinsurance and/or deductible amounts determined by insurance. For more information patients should contact to apply, call 1-844-870-8870.

Choose Cancerguard with confidence

From clear and reliable results to guided next steps, Cancerguard is built with the patient experience at the center. For adults who want to take a more proactive role in their health, Cancerguard offers a meaningful way to screen for cancers with a simple blood test, helping individuals stay empowered and informed. The Cancerguard test may benefit people who:

• Are proactive in their approach to their health
• Have increased risk factors, such as smoking, alcohol use, obesity, or are over age 50
• Haven’t had a cancer diagnosis in the last three years
• Have a family history of cancer

This test is not recommended for individuals who have had cancer within the past three years or who are pregnant, and it does not replace recommended screening. Individuals interested in taking the Cancerguard test should talk to their doctor about whether the test is right for them.

Learn more at www.cancerguard.com.

Disclaimer: The Cancerguard test was developed, and the performance characteristics validated by Exact Sciences Laboratories following College of American Pathologists (CAP) and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The test is performed at Exact Sciences Laboratories. Exact Sciences Laboratories is accredited by CAP, certified under CLIA regulations, and qualified to perform high-complexity clinical laboratory testing.

Cancerguard and Exact Sciences are trademarks of Exact Sciences Corporation. © 2026 Exact Sciences Corporation. All rights reserved.