Stomach cancer is the 7th most common cancer for men in Singapore, and the 9th most common for women. Every year on average, it is responsible for 300 deaths. Stomach cancer is often asymptomatic in its initial stages, resulting in many patients being diagnosed only when the cancer has reached at a late or advanced stage. GASTROClear™ by local biotech firm MiRXES, is a biomarker blood test developed locally in Singapore that makes it easy and cost-effective to test for stomach cancer. GASTROClear is available in Singapore. If you are aged 40 and above and are concerned about the possibility of stomach cancer, this is a test that you can consider. In this article we answer 5 top FAQs about GASTROClear.
Top 5 FAQs About GASTROClear
#1 Why Is GASTROClear Useful In Protecting Against Stomach Cancer?
GASTROClear is a blood test that measures the levels of 12 microRNAs in the blood that are associated with stomach cancer. It is able to accurately detect stomach cancer, even before symptoms show. This allows the patient to seek further medical attention, and for the cancer to be treated earlier.
According to Mirxes, GASTROClear detects all stages of stomach cancer with up to 86% sensitivity and up to 89% specificity verified in an asymptomatic, average-risk population.
#2 What Are the Benefits Of GASTROClear?
GASTROClear is not a replacement for gastroscopy. However, compared to gastroscopy, it is minimally invasive, less time-consuming, and costs less. Significantly also, it avoids the sedation and other risks associated with gastroscopies. Your doctor will advise you on the need for further diagnosis if your test results indicate an elevated risk of stomach cancer.
#3 Who Is GASTROClear Suitable For?
People of either gender who are aged 40 years or older and have one or more risk factors for stomach cancer can consider GASTROClear.
Risk Factors For Stomach Cancer include:
- Family history of stomach cancer.
- Personal history of Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Chronic gastritis.
- High consumption of fried foods, smoked foods, salted fish, processed meats, and pickled foods.
- Consumption of foods containing nitrites and nitrates, commonly found in cured meats.
- Low consumption of fruits and vegetables.
#4 How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a GASTROClear test depends on the clinic offering the test. It may typically be priced around S$300 – S$350. Packages for GASTROClear from our healthcare partner AsiaMedic may be purchased here: https://shop.health365.sg/collections/stomach-cancer-gastroclear-asiamedic
AsiaMedic is located at 350 Orchard Rd, #08-00 Shaw House, Singapore 238868.
#5 How Do I Prepare For A GASTROClear Test?
Patients need to avoid food 2 hours before having their blood drawn. It is recommended that they do not drink alcohol, smoke, or eat pickled food for at least 1 day before blood collection.
Further Reading On Stomach Cancer
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.