This April, a new FDA-approved blood test is giving Nevadans a simpler option for colorectal cancer screening.
Guardant Health’s Shield test is the first and only blood-based test approved by the FDA for primary colorectal cancer screening in average-risk adults age 45 and older. Unlike traditional methods, Shield requires only a routine blood draw.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Nevada. This year, the American Cancer Society estimates 1,530 Nevadans will be diagnosed and 580 will die from the disease. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is 91%.
Many people delay screening due to the preparation involved in colonoscopies or discomfort with at-home stool tests. A recent Harris Poll survey found that 77% of screening-eligible Americans said they would be less likely to avoid or delay screening if a blood test option were available.
Shield is currently covered with no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients under Medicare, TRICARE, and VA Community Care. However, most private insurance plans in Nevada do not yet cover the test.
The test is available by prescription through healthcare providers across Nevada and can be completed during a routine office visit.
For more information about Shield, visit ShieldCancerScreen.com.
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