Urine test detects 92% of bladder cancers

A urine test trialled by the NHS can detect more than nine in ten cases of bladder cancer. The latest findings from a study published in European Urology Oncology show the test identified 92% of bladder cancer cases in nearly 1,000 patients.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham and diagnostics company Nonacus led the study across seven hospitals in England and Scotland. They hope the test could reduce the number of patients needing urgent, invasive cystoscopies. This procedure involves inserting a small camera into the bladder via the urethra.

A successful larger trial could spare tens of thousands of patients these tests each year.

Potential to ease NHS waiting lists

Over 300,000 cystoscopies are performed in the UK annually, with significant waiting lists in some areas. The urine test is not a replacement for cystoscopies. Instead, it could help doctors identify patients at greater risk who should be prioritised for urgent procedures.

A negative result from the test meant there was more than a 99% chance the patient did not have bladder cancer. This could help streamline care.

How the genetic test works

The test, called Galeas, checks for genetic material shed into urine by bladder cancer. It was originally developed by the University of Birmingham with funding from Cancer Research UK (CRUK). The test looks for more than 450 DNA mutations associated with bladder cancer across 23 genes.

Professor Richard Bryan, a study co-author from Birmingham University, said it was exciting to see "very promising early performance" in a large real-world patient population after years of development. Under a licensing agreement, the test has been commercialised by Nonacus, which pays back part of the revenue to the University and CRUK.

Cautious optimism from cancer charities

Michelle Mitchell from CRUK highlighted the urgency for faster diagnosis. "Too many people are waiting longer than they should for a bladder cancer diagnosis, and it's essential that we find ways to tackle this problem," she said. She noted the test is in early stages and further research is needed, but finding less invasive diagnostic methods is vital.

Bladder cancer is more common in men over 60, with the main symptom being blood in urine. The seriousness of the cancer depends on its size and whether it has spread. Early detection and treatment save lives. The study's success in a real-world setting marks a significant step toward a more convenient diagnostic tool for patients.