Fast And Convenient Screening Test For Stomach Cancer With GASTROClear™ At AsiaMedic Wellness Assessment Centre
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Know Your Risk. Manage Your Future.
GASTROClear developed by Singapore biotech firm MiRXES, is the world’s first biomarker blood screening for early detection of stomach cancer (also known as gastric cancer) through serum analysis. GASTROClear is minimally non-invasive with a simple draw of blood, making it both more accessible and convenient for patients.
In Singapore, stomach cancer ranks as the sixth leading cause of cancer-related fatalities in men and the seventh in women. In its early stages, stomach cancer may show no symptoms. Nevertheless, early detection and treatment can markedly enhance the prospects of successful management. Hence, prioritising regular screening for stomach cancer is of utmost importance.
In this article, we will delve into what GASTROClear is, its accuracy, risk categorisation, and key advantages over other known screening methods. We have also interviewed Derrick Ong, General Manager at AsiaMedic, to learn more about how GASTROClear can help save lives, and where people can get tested while enjoying class-leading levels of customer service.
What is GASTROClear and how does it work?
GASTROClear by Mirxes is a stomach cancer blood test – the first of its kind in the world designed to detect stomach cancer in individuals who may not yet be experiencing any symptoms. GASTROClear is the result of an international collaboration led by the Singapore Gastric Cancer Consortium (SGCC) and involved researchers and clinicians from Singapore and South Korea. By analysing a small blood sample, GASTROClear can provide information about your risk of developing stomach cancer, categorising it as low, moderate or high.
How accurate is GASTROClear in detecting stomach cancer?
GASTROClear has been validated to exhibit a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 88% in detecting stomach cancer among asymptomatic, average-risk individuals in Chinese and South Korean populations. In a symptomatic, high-risk population in Singapore, GASTROClear demonstrated sensitivities of 87.5% for stage I and 89.5% for stage II stomach cancer, while maintaining a specificity of 68.4%.
Who should take a GASTROClear test?
GASTROClear is suitable for individuals of either gender who are aged 40 years or older and have one or more risk factors for stomach cancer.
What do GASTROClear's risk categorisations mean for patients?
GASTROClear screening results provide clear risk categorisations. If a patient falls into the low-risk category, this means that it is less likely that they have stomach cancer compared to the general population. They can repeat the test yearly to ensure continued peace of mind, or at intervals recommended by a physician.
For those in the intermediate-risk category, they have the option to repeat the test every six months or consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation, who might recommend a follow-up with gastroscopy if other relevant clinical evidence suggests.
If the test indicates a high risk, it means there is a higher likelihood they have stomach cancer compared to the general population. However, it does not mean that the patient definitely has stomach cancer. GASTROClear results also do not indicate the extent of the cancer, if any. For patients who receive a “high risk” result, they should consult a gastroenterologist for a gastroscopy or other diagnostic investigations.
What are the key advantages of using GASTROClear over other stomach cancer screening methods currently available?
It should be noted that GASTROClear does not replace gastroscopy. Its importance is in providing a convenient way to assess a person’s risk of having stomach cancer. It offers several advantages such as being minimally invasive, requiring only a simple blood test, which is much less uncomfortable than going straight for a gastroscopy. Compared to tumour marker blood tests, the results are much more accurate.
It is important to screen for stomach cancer, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of the disease. GASTROClear is a powerful tool in the fight against stomach cancer, offering a convenient and effective way to enable early detection when treatment options are most successful. We encourage everyone to consider this test as part of their healthcare routine.
AsiaMedic - Trusted in Singapore For Over 25 Years
Derrick Ong, General Manager at AsiaMedic Talks About The Patient Experience At AsiaMedic
Could you please introduce yourself and your role at AsiaMedic?
I am Derrick Ong, and I am the General Manager here at AsiaMedic. My role involves overseeing of daily operations as well as growth.
How does undergoing GASTROClear screening at AsiaMedic benefit patients?
Patients can confidently undergo their GASTROClear or other screening tests at AsiaMedic. With over 25 years of experience, we have established ourselves as a trusted healthcare brand in Singapore, catering to our patients’ diverse healthcare requirements. Our medical team comprises highly experienced and qualified professionals who offer a level of service that we believe is unparalleled. We are passionate about providing care for our patients. Additionally, our Wellness Assessment Centre is well-appointed with amenities to ensure a comfortable and pleasant experience for our patients during their visit.
AsiaMedic Wellness Assessment Centre is conveniently located in the heart of Orchard Road which makes it easily accessible from anywhere in Singapore. The simplicity of GASTROClear as a blood test makes it minimally invasive, requiring only a straightforward blood draw and no extensive preparations. Patients have the flexibility to schedule the test at their convenience, reducing the hassle associated with stomach cancer screening.
Can you walk us through the process of getting a GASTROClear screening at AsiaMedic?
When a patient comes in for a GASTROClear screening, our friendly staff guides them through the process. First, we take a blood sample, which is a quick and straightforward procedure. The sample is then sent to the lab for analysis. Within four days the patient receives their results, allowing for prompt follow-up action if needed. Once the result is out, there will be a medical review with our doctor. If the patient needs a specialist for further consultation, we can certainly refer them to suitable ones.
Can you share some insights into how the availability of GASTROClear at AsiaMedic aligns with your commitment to preventive healthcare and early detection?
Preventive healthcare is one of our priorities at AsiaMedic. GASTROClear fits perfectly into this approach by providing an efficient way to detect stomach cancer risk early on. By offering this test, we empower our patients to take proactive steps towards their health, which is a key aspect of preventive medicine.
What message would you like to convey to individuals who might be considering GASTROClear testing at AsiaMedic?
I would like to emphasise that your health is your asset. GASTROClear offers a convenient way to prioritise your health and well-being. Do not hesitate to reach out to us at AsiaMedic to schedule your testing. Early detection can make a significant difference in the successful treatment of stomach cancer, and we are here to support you on your journey to better health.
A Summary Of The Conclusion: Benefits Of GASTROClear Testing
1. Convenient screening test for stomach cancer
GASTROClear is a quick and straightforward procedure that only requires a blood sample from patients. Through the test, information about the patient’s risk of developing stomach cancer, categorised as low, moderate or high can be provided. Patients also have the flexibility to schedule the test at their convenience at AsiaMedic, reducing the hassle associated with stomach cancer screening.
2. Minimally Invasive
GASTROClear being minimally invasive, requires only a simple blood test. This is less uncomfortable than undergoing a gastroscopy. It can also be considered as an option for individuals who have concerns about stomach cancer but seek to minimise their exposure to sedatives and the invasive nature of gastroscopy.
3. Highly Accurate
Compared to tumour marker blood tests, the results of GASTROClear are much more accurate. It has been validated to exhibit a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 88% in detecting stomach cancer among asymptomatic, average-risk individuals in Chinese and South Korean populations.
Interested In GASTROClear?
Get GASTROClear tested At AsiaMedic Wellness Assessment Centre
You can undergo a GASTROClear screening by itself or as part of your comprehensive health screening. AsiaMedic, a leading healthcare provider in Singapore with over 25 years of experience in providing premier medical services in advanced diagnostic imaging, clinical services and preventive care, offers a range of choices for individuals interested in screening for stomach cancer using GASTROClear. AsiaMedic Wellness Assessment Centre is located at Shaw House, along Orchard Road, Singapore. Orchard MRT station is within walking distance.
GASTROClear Patient Experience At AsiaMedic
Disclaimers
- MiRXES GASTROClear is an invitro diagnostic assay intended for use as an adjunctive test for the detection of gastric neoplasia associated miRNA biomarkers in human serum. GASTROClear is NOT intended as a replacement for gastroscopy; it should be used in conjunction with gastroscopy and other test methods. It is thus an adjunctive tool to aid in the detection of gastric cancer. As such, only patients who met certain criteria are tested using GASTROClear based on recommendation by the physician. The results obtained from the test may indicate the presence of gastric cancer and the patient then goes for gastroscopy as required. The output of GASTROClear is a risk score, where a high score may indicate the presence of gastric cancer and should be followed up by gastroscopy. This test is intended for adults of either sex, 40 years or older, at average risk of having gastric cancer with one of the following risk factors:
- Family history of stomach cancer
- A history of Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) infection
- Previous history of stomach lymphoma and stomach polyps
- Long term stomach inflammation (chronic gastritis)
- Diets containing large amounts of fried food, smoked foods, salted fish, processed meat, and pickled foods.
- Diets containing nitrites and nitrates substances commonly found in cured meats.
- Diet low in fruits and vegetables
- Smoking
2. MiRXES GASTROClear is approved and listed with Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore and CE Mark under the EU IVD Directive 98/79/EC.
3. For up-to-date product specific disclaimers, see the respective MiRXES GASTROClear instructions for use. MiRXES GASTROClear instructions for use can be requested from MiRXES Technical Services or your local distributor.
4. Trademarks: MiRXES GASTROClear™ is registered trademark for MiRXES, Inc. All other product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks that may appear in this document are property of their respective owners.
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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.