Abstract IA025: Rethinking risk assessment in the era of multi-cancer early detection

Abstract

Abstract Cancer screening is a critical component of cancer control and reducing cancer mortality as it increases the likelihood of identifying cancers earlier when there is a greater opportunity for therapeutic intervention. Current cancer screening tests, such as mammography, focus on detection of a single cancer type, and screening recommendations for these tests are based on risk of that single cancer. Unfortunately, recommended screening tests are available only for a few cancers that collectively account for approximately one-third of cancer-related deaths, leaving opportunity for enhanced screening that would potentially include additional cancer types. Newer technologies that are under development have the potential to reduce the overall cancer burden because they are focused on the early detection of multiple cancers in a single screening test (called multi-cancer early detection, or MCED, tests). Given existing screenings are cancer-specific, the introduction of MCED tests, which simultaneously target detection of several cancers, will require a new approach to risk assessment and screening guidelines development. Specifically, MCED screening guidelines will require that we understand the populations who will most benefit from using MCED tests; identify the risk factors, other than age, that are associated with risk of developing any cancer; and determine the frequency of screening intervals. In this presentation, we will explore strategies for rethinking risk assessment related to MCED tests to begin informing future multi-cancer screening guidelines. Citation Format: Alpa V. Patel. Rethinking risk assessment in the era of multi-cancer early detection. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Precision Prevention, Early Detection, and Interception of Cancer; 2022 Nov 17-19; Austin, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Can Prev Res 2023;16(1 Suppl): Abstract nr IA025.