What is the Cost of a Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test?

Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Cost in India

The Multi Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Test also known as liquid biopsy, is a type of blood test that aims to identify the earliest stages of cancer. Currently, you can obtain an MCED for anywhere from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000 in India. This test screens for certain high-risk cancers (e.g., breast, lung, colorectal) using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) or other biomarkers. Since this is a relatively new test in India, it is available in select diagnostic clinics. This is revolutionary advancement in cancer screening.

What is the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test? 

An MCED test takes a blood sample and scans it for any sign of cancer. It looks for RNA, DNA and abnormal cells. However, this test may only detect whether cancer is present. It might not detect its origin.

Cost of the MCED Test in India

The average cost of an MCED test in India ranges from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000. This depends on various factors, such as geographical locations and test type. Moreover, insurance coverage also decides its final cost.

Why is the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Important?

MCED can benefit hundreds of people by helping to detect cancer before any symptoms appear. Since most cancers do not show symptoms until they have progressed, this test may help in early detection and prevention.

Apart from MCED, other tests available currently only detect specific types of cancer. However, with multi-cancer early detection tests, you can easily detect any kind of cancer before symptoms show.

Which Cancer Can MCED Detect? 

The test can detect more than 50 types of cancer from a simple blood sample. Some of them are:

• Liver cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Stomach cancer
• Plasma cell neoplasm
• Oral cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Anal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Leukaemia
• Colorectal cancer
• Lung cancer
• Head and neck
• Mesothelioma

How accurate is the MCED Test?

MCED test is regarded with high level of accuracy as compared to other cancer detection tests. MCED test has a very low false positive rate i.e. 1%, whereas other screening tests have a 10 to 40% false positive rate. Currently, MCED tests are done along with other screenings. In upcoming future, after gathering more data and research, it will make cancer tests easy and become the only test that is recommended to detect any cancer. Soon, all early cancer detection will be based on a blood test.

Does Insurance Cover MCED Tests?

Unfortunately, the multi-cancer early detection test is not yet covered by insurance. If you wish to opt for this test, you have to pay out of pocket. There are several reasons for this exclusion. They are:

• Lack of Approval: The American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) have not yet approved this test. Since it is not deemed medically necessary, insurance does not currently cover it.
• Follow-Up Tests: MCED is not an all-inclusive test. This means it does not definitively answer where the cancer is located. Therefore, follow-up tests are required to get a proper diagnosis.
• Early Stages: This test is still in its early stages of development. Proper trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
• False Positive Reports: Many times, MCED tests may indicate signs of low-risk cancer. However, this leads to unnecessary panic and follow-up checkups.

Therefore, a lack of insurance coverage can increase the cost of MCED tests.

Is the MCED Test for you?

The MCED test is ideal for people with an elevated risk of cancer. Since age is one of the primary contributing factors towards cancer, people over 50 years old may consider getting this test done. However, always consult with your doctor before opting for this test.

A multi-cancer early detection test marks a significant advancement in cancer care in India. As further research and trials about this test progress, its cost may be reduced. Currently, you can obtain an MCED for anywhere from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000 in India.

Also Read:

→ Cost of a Platelet Count Test

→ Cost of Appendix Surgery

→ Cost of Cancer Tests

→ Cost of Cardiac Ablation in India

→ Cost of ICSI Treatment in India