From CancerSEEK to Cancerguard™: How Early Research Sparked a New Era in Cancer Detection 

This week, Exact Sciences announced the launch of Cancerguard™, a new blood-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test now available as a laboratory-developed test (LDT) in the U.S., priced at $689. The test analyzes multiple biomarker classes—including circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and tumor-associated protein levels—to detect signals from more than 50 cancer types, such as pancreatic, ovarian, liver, lung, esophageal, and stomach cancers. 

Foundational research by Dr. Bert Vogelstein and colleagues at Johns Hopkins—made possible in part through early support from the Lustgarten Foundation—sparked the development of this type of blood test. That early work led to CancerSEEK, the prototype that laid the groundwork for what has now become Cancerguard. It is a clear example of how bold, high-risk science can translate into real-world advances. 

Scope & Limitations 
Cancerguard is intended for individuals aged 50–84 with no known cancer diagnosis in the past three years. It is not designed for detecting breast or prostate cancers, nor precancerous lesions. The test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA; it is offered under CLIA- and CAP-certified laboratory regulations. 

Test Performance Data (from case-control studies) 

• Development study (590 cancer patients, 2,434 controls, excluding breast & prostate): 
  • Sensitivity: 64.1% 
  • Specificity: 97.4% 
• Validation study (223 cancer patients, 800 controls): 
  • Sensitivity: 55.6% 
  • Specificity: 97.4% 

It’s important to note that these data come from case-control studies. How Cancerguard performs in broader, real-world screening remains to be seen. 

Pathway After a Positive Result 
A positive Cancerguard result indicates that a cancer signal was detected—but it is not a diagnosis. Patients are typically referred for imaging studies such as IV-contrast CT scans or PET-CT, along with further clinical evaluation. To support this process, Exact Sciences offers a Care Navigation program to help patients and providers with next steps. 

Access & Availability 
Cancerguard is available through Quest Diagnostics, with blood collection at approximately 7,000 patient service sites nationwide, as well as mobile phlebotomy options. Results are typically returned within two weeks. 

At Lustgarten, we remain focused on our mission: transforming pancreatic cancer into a curable disease. While Cancerguard is not specific to pancreatic cancer, its release underscores how visionary investments in early detection research can ripple outward—helping to shape innovations that may change the course of cancer detection more broadly.