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A SIMPLE blood test that can detect cancer before a tumour has taken shape has been developed by British scientists. Due to be introduced in Britain by early next year, it is described as offering a "paradigm shift" in cancer diagnosis.

The original article can be found at: http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/health-science/new-blood-test-for-early-cancer-detection/story-e6frg8y6-1225873914572

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what we said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

This is a story about a potentially interesting development in the early detection of a variety of cancers. The problem with the article is that it relies very heavily on information provided by the company and the principal researcher, who appears to have a strong financial interest in the development of the test. The lead researcher's obvious conflict of interest is not adequately highlighted in the article. No data are presented in this article that indicate anything useful about the performance of the test. The rates of 'true positive' and 'false positive' results are not highlighted and the consequences of having a false test result - such as unnecessary and toxic treatment are not even considered in the article. The independent source the national clinical director for breast cancer appears to be selectively quoted "very exciting concept" with less emphasis on his comment that large trials will be needed to see if it makes a difference to patients. This is one-sided and very superficial reporting.

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