The Hindu: A step forward in detection and prevention of cancer

Lucid Medical Diagnostics has announced a tie-up with Mapmygenome, a molecular diagnostics company, to offer ‘DNA OncoScreen’ combining pathology services with genomics for prevention and early detection of cancers.

About 15 kinds of cancer that are more likely to occur among Indians – breast, lung, prostrate, colorectal, bladder, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, ovarian, thyroid, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Hodgkins lymphoma, Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, basal cell carcinoma and testicular – could be screened using this procedure.

“The screening test will especially be useful for those with a family history of cancer and those who are likely to be prone to cancer owing to their lifestyle, said Anu Acharya, CEO of Mapmygenome, and Sunitha Lingareddy, managing director of Lucid, at a press conference here on Thursday.

DNO OncoScreen assesses genetic predisposition to various cancers, physiological traits that are known to trigger cancer and lifestyles linked to cancer risk with key clinical markers tested. “If the screening is done along with regular health check-ups, it can identify what kind of cancer a person is prone to,” they said.

Pointing out that various cancer cases were on the rise across the country, they said it was because they were being detected late, thinning out the chances of survival. The new test may not stop cancer, but would help in early detection, prevention and diagnosis for effective treatment, they added.

“We will also help in counselling the patients and doctors from certified experts to interpret reports, comprehend lifetime risk, keep track of the body and begin a personalised action plan with diet, lifestyle and other interventions,” said Dr. Sunita and Ms. Anu Acharya.

Comprehensive tests

Three comprehensive tests – DNA OncoScreen Pro priced at ₹ 9,999; DNA OncoScreen Plus at ₹ 15,999 and DNA OncoScreen Premium at ₹19,999 – are being offered at Lucid, including biochemical tests and genetic risk assessment.