Diagnostic approaches for early cancer detection in Pacific Youth using ctDNA technology

Abstract

Abstract Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) refers to small fragments of tumour-derived DNA that escape into the bloodstream. Analysis of these ctDNA fragments can be utilized to monitor responses to treatment by providing information relating to tumour size and progression and can support clinical decision making. A potential adaptation of the ctDNA monitoring technology is proposed to support utility of ctDNA for early cancer diagnostic efforts. This would comprise a simple method for early cancer detection that would be helpful across multiple settings, including that for Pacific Peoples. Pacific Peoples living in Aotearoa/New Zealand and in the Pacific Region are disproportionately affected by specific cancer types. The potential utility of ctDNA for early cancer detection is an approach that could help reduce adverse health outcomes if successful particularly for Pacific communities. To understand more about the diagnostic approaches applicable for early cancer diagnostics for Pacific young people in living in Aotearoa/New Zealand, feedback was sought on the aspects requiring attention in the Youth setting and also in relation to the possible utility of ctDNA technology as an example. Preliminary aspects of the cancer setting identified as important for early cancer diagnosis for Pacific young people, included the need for improved accessibility, the importance of cultural context and awareness, and the need for simplicity with any technological approach used for early cancer diagnosis, such as that being proposed using ctDNA.