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Ever wish a single test could detect all things wrong with your health? Something similar is now available in India. The Shield Multi-Cancer Detection (MCD) Test, which screens for 10 different cancers, was officially launched in India a few days ago. It can screen for cancers like breast, lung, colorectal, pancreatic, ovarian, prostate, liver, gastric, oesophageal and bladder cancer. The test was launched in India by Ahmedabad-based Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, a multinational pharmaceutical company, and was developed by Guardant Health in the US. Apollo Cancer Centres will be the first healthcare institution in the country to deploy and administer the blood tests. The test is for those aged 45 and above. 

How much does it cost
As of now, the company hasn't disclosed MCD's cost in India yet. However, similar tests in India can cost up to ₹1,00,000, according to Apollo Hospitals. The test was first launched in the USA in 2021. There, it costs between $650 to $950.

Prostate cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the prostate, a small gland that helps make the fluid part of semen. Photo: iStock/CatLane
Around 10 cancers, including prostate cancer, can be detected through this blood test. Photo: iStock/CatLane

How accurate is MCD
According to reports, MCD's specificity is 98%, with an incredibly low false-positive rate. Apparently, it is the best at detecting cancers that only appear in the late stages, such as colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancers.

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