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Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests: prioritizing equity from bench to bedside
Sarah J Miller1,2,3, Jamilia R Sly1,2,3, Christian Rolfo3,4
1Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
Health Affairs Scholar
|May 24, 2024
Summary
Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests show promise, but equitable access is crucial. Prioritizing equity during MCED development can prevent future health disparities in cancer screening.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Equity
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are emerging as a significant advancement in cancer screening.
- There is substantial interest and investment in the potential benefits and applications of these blood-based tests.
- Ensuring equitable access to healthcare innovations is a persistent challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for prioritizing equity in the development of MCED tests.
- To propose actionable considerations for ensuring equitable benefit from MCED technologies.
- To prevent the emergence and exacerbation of cancer inequities associated with new screening tools.
Main Methods:
- Review of current trends in MCED test development and investment.
- Analysis of historical patterns of inequity in healthcare innovation.
- Development of a framework with 9 key equity considerations for MCEDs.
Main Results:
- MCED tests are under active development with significant potential for broad cancer screening.
- Without proactive measures, MCEDs risk widening existing health disparities.
- A set of 9 equity considerations have been proposed for immediate implementation.
Conclusions:
- Proactive integration of equity considerations is essential during the development phase of MCED tests.
- Collaboration among industry, researchers, clinicians, payers, and policymakers is vital for equitable deployment.
- Addressing equity from the outset will help ensure that MCEDs benefit all populations, regardless of background.
