Researchers in the United States have developed a new urine test that could change the way prostate cancer is detected. This test aims to reduce the need for painful biopsies, which are currently needed to confirm the diagnosis.
The test identifies three specific markers—TTC3, H4C5, and EPCAM—in a patient’s urine. In their studies, the test showed an impressive accuracy of 91% in recognizing prostate cancer and 84% in ruling it out. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
The research team, led by scientists from the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center and other institutions, gathered urine samples from patients before and after prostate surgery, as well as from healthy individuals. They found that the three biomarkers were present in the urine of cancer patients but were absent after surgery, confirming their link to prostate tissue.
Currently, prostate cancer is usually detected using a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. However, this test is not very specific, meaning many men undergo unnecessary biopsies to confirm a diagnosis.
“There’s a real need for non-invasive testing options,” said Dr. Christian Pavlovich, one of the study’s authors. “This new urine test could improve diagnostic accuracy and help reduce unnecessary procedures.” The urine test could offer a more straightforward way for doctors to identify prostate cancer, especially in patients who have normal PSA levels. It has the potential to not only save men from invasive procedures but also to allow for earlier treatment when necessary.
– Rashmi Kumari
