Rhythm Biosciences - Gastric Cancer Diagnostic Test Update - 24 September 2024
RHY (RHY) Share Update September 2024 Monday 23rd
Rhythm Biosciences Advances Gastric Cancer Diagnostic Test
Rhythm Biosciences Ltd (ASX: RHY) has made significant strides in developing a blood test for early detection of gastric cancer, showing promising preliminary results.
Instant Summary:
- Identified 19 blood-based protein biomarkers for cancer detection.
- Biomarker combinations show >75% sensitivity and >90% specificity in distinguishing gastric cancer.
- Plans to develop and clinically validate a commercial blood test for early gastric cancer detection.
Platform Expansion
Rhythm Biosciences Ltd, a company specializing in predictive cancer diagnostics, has announced an update on its platform expansion program targeting gastric cancer. The company has identified combinations of protein biomarkers in blood that can effectively differentiate between gastric cancer patients and healthy individuals.
Gastric cancer has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of just 38%, compared to much higher rates for prostate and breast cancer. Current detection methods, such as upper endoscopy combined with tissue biopsy, are invasive, costly, and time-consuming, with sensitivity and specificity values of 69% and 96%, respectively.
Study Results
Rhythm's study involved 100 gastric cancer patients and 100 healthy volunteers. The analysis identified promising combinations of 6, 7, and 8 protein biomarkers that can distinguish between patients with and without gastric cancer with sensitivities greater than 75% and specificities over 90%.
The company plans to confirm these results in a larger and more diverse population, working with its multiplex assay development partner to develop a commercial blood test for early detection of gastric cancer.
Global Impact
Gastric cancer is more prevalent in Asia, with significantly higher rates compared to the USA. Of the approximately 1 million new cases diagnosed globally each year, over 50% are in Asia. Early detection through a simple blood test could be a valuable clinical tool, particularly in regions with high disease prevalence.
The development of a non-invasive, highly sensitive, and specific blood test for gastric cancer could revolutionize early detection and treatment, potentially improving survival rates and reducing healthcare costs. This advancement may positively influence Rhythm Biosciences' stock as investors recognize the commercial potential and global impact of the new diagnostic tool.
Investor Reaction:
Analysts are likely to view this development positively, given the significant unmet need for early gastric cancer detection. The promising preliminary results and the company's plans for further validation and commercialization could boost investor confidence.
Conclusion:
Investors should keep an eye on Rhythm Biosciences' progress in developing and validating this gastric cancer blood test. The potential for early detection and improved patient outcomes makes this an exciting development in the field of cancer diagnostics.