Blood test that screens for multiple types of cancer? It may be available soon

Blood test screening for multiple cancers is moving toward federal approval, with the FDA assessing Galleri as a broad multi-cancer early detection option. The test, which looks for traces of DNA or other cancer markers in a single vial, is designed to help doctors decide where to investigate further rather than provide a cancer diagnosis. The FDA could approve it later this year, potentially expanding access beyond current limited screening. In the U.S., routine screening typically covers five cancers—breast, colon, cervical, prostate, and lung—using separate exams or scans, while Galleri targets up to 50 cancers. Grail lists the Galleri price at $950, while Exact Sciences’ Cancerguard is $659. Congress voted in February for Medicare reimbursement beginning in 2028, after more rigorous FDA vetting. Large studies in the U.K. (142,000+ via NHS) and North America (35,000, Pathfinder 2) are ongoing.