Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests: prioritizing equity from bench to bedside

Abstract

Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are blood-based tests designed to screen for signals of multiple cancers. There is growing interest and investment in examining the potential benefits and applications of MCED tests. If MCED tests are shown to have clinical utility, it is important to ensure that all people—regardless of their demographic or socioeconomic background—equitably benefit from these tests. Unfortunately, with health care innovation, such considerations are often ignored until after inequities emerge. We urge for-profit companies, scientists, clinicians, payers, and government agencies to prioritize equity now—when MCEDs are still being developed and researched. In an effort to avoid creating and exacerbating cancer inequities, we propose 9 equity considerations for MCEDs.

Technology and Future of Multi-Cancer Early Detection

“…Another area that is rapidly improving but still in need of resolution with current practice is cost, reimbursement, and timing. The actual individual cost for most of the commercially available tools is less than aggregate-focused screening; however, the total cost impact on health systems for utilizing such tools in place of traditional methods (or in transitions) must be modeled and presented in the best interest of public health and with 100% equitable access [34]. Whether employers, insurance companies, government, or private citizens pay for the screening is highly dependent on the timing of testing and the lifetime testing needed.…”