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Urine test could detect two cancers with '99%' success rate - revolutionary research

Researchers, led by Dr Ho Sang Jung, collaborated on the project to improve cancer diagnostics. Dr Jung said: "In the case of cancers where the diagnosis method is not well known, such as pancreatic cancer, it is difficult to detect and the survival rate after initial diagnosis is low. "Since early diagnosis is the most important for incurable diseases such as cancer, we expect this technology to provide a new diagnostic method."

For the research study, the team manufactured a strip-type sensor that detects metabolites.

Urine samples of cancer patients and non-cancer patients were compared in terms of metabolic components.

When cancer cells proliferate in the body, they secrete different metabolites into the urine due to abnormal metabolism.

The strip sensor "succeeded in distinguishing up to 99 percent of prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer patients from normal people".

The rapid cancer patient screening tool is also highly accessible, as urine is a "biological sample that anyone can easily" provide.

The authors noted: "In addition, since the production price of the strip-type sensor is less than KRW 100 per unit, it is expected that it can be used for mass inspection."

Currently, the research team is gradually increasing the types of cancer that could be diagnosed by analysing the urine of bowel cancer and lung cancer patients.

Prostate cancer diagnosis

Prostate Cancer UK highlighted a urine test that highlights the activity of the PCA3 gene.

"CA3 is a gene that is active in all prostate cells but it's very active in prostate cancer cells," the charity elaborates.

"At the moment the PCA3 test is only available in a few private hospitals and clinics, as we still need more research about how well it works."

Do book a doctor's appointment if you identify with any of the following possible signs of prostate cancer, as pointed out by the NHS:

Reference: Daily Express: Story by Chanel Georgina •