What Is GASTROClear™ Test?

September 4, 2024
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2 weeks ago

When it comes to early cancer detection, having access to advanced diagnostic tools can make a significant difference in outcomes. One such tool that has gained attention in Singapore is the GASTROClear test. If you or a loved one are concerned about stomach cancer, understanding this test could be crucial. In this article, we will explore what is GASTROClear test – how it works, its accuracy, and reasons why you should take this test.

What Is The GASTROClear Test?

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 Does It Work?

Stomach cancer is typically diagnosed through gastroscopy with biopsy. However, gastroscopy is costly and invasive, often requiring fasting and the administration of sedatives or anesthesia.

In contrast, GASTROClear is a minimally invasive and time-efficient screening method that determines a person’s likelihood of having stomach cancer. Diseases such as cancer, often result in abnormal levels of certain associated biomaterials called microRNAs in the blood. GASTROClear measures the levels of 12 microRNAs in the serum that are produced by stomach cancer cells. By using GASTROClear, doctors can assess a patient’s risk of stomach cancer even before symptoms become apparent.

If the results indicate an elevated risk of stomach cancer compared to the general population, the patient may be advised to undergo additional tests, such as gastroscopy, to confirm the diagnosis. Doctors will receive guidelines for follow-up recommendations tailored to each risk group to effectively manage patient care.

As with any early detection tests, it is important to consult your doctor to get a proper understanding of the results and for an appropriate follow-up plan of action. It should be noted that GASTROClear is not intended as a replacement for gastroscopy in the diagnostic process.

Early detection through GASTROClear, as opposed to waiting for symptoms to manifest, empowers patients to adopt a proactive approach to managing their risks and seeking timely medical attention, ultimately leading to the best possible outcome

How Accurate Is It 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.

Risk Factors For Stomach Cancer

Family history of gastric 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.

Benefits Of The GASTROClear Test

#1 Detect Stomach Cancer Earlier

GASTROClear is highly accurate in identifying an increased risk of stomach cancer, often before any symptoms manifest. This early detection capability eliminates the need to wait for symptoms to prompt a gastroscopy, resulting in the diagnosis of stomach cancer at an earlier stage.

#2 Understand And Manage Your Risk For Stomach Cancer

Even if follow-up gastroscopy does not confirm the presence of stomach cancer, a GASTROClear test result indicating an increased risk level can serve as a signal to proactively adopt preventive measures against stomach cancer. These measures may include adopting a healthier diet and lifestyle. Additionally, during follow-up gastroscopy, pre-cancerous polyps can be identified and removed if present.

#3 Convenient And Non-Invasive

GASTROClear, as a highly accurate blood screening method for assessing stomach cancer risks, can be considered a valuable option for individuals who have concerns about the potential of stomach cancer but seek to minimise their exposure to sedatives and the invasive aspects associated with gastroscopy.

Where Can I Get A GASTROClear Test?

Get GASTROClear testing 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.

Consult Our Preferred Doctor – Dr Benjamin Yip

Dr Benjamin Yip is a Consultant Gastroenterologist in Singapore, and the Medical Director at Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre.

GASTROClear is meant to complement a gastroscopy (procedure to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract) and other diagnostic tests. Due to GASTROClear blood test’s non-invasive nature, it might be a friendlier and more comfortable option for patients who wish to test for early stage stomach cancer but are afraid of undergoing a gastroscopy. Depending on your age, risk factors and lifestyle, Dr Yip will advise you accordingly.

Dr Benjamin Yip with Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre staff — Dr Benjamin Yip

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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.