top
We are introducing two new screening tests for colon and lung cancer.

We are introducing two new screening tests for colon and lung cancer.

GHC Genetics has introduced two new non-invasive screening tests, PulmoScreen and ColonScreen, which can detect serious diseases before they manifest themselves. These are blood screening tests for cancer and colorectal cancer. Both tests are based on the so-called analysis of DNA methylation in a blood sample and represent a modern, fast, and highly accessible form of prevention that can detect very early pathological changes in cells that later lead to the development of cancerous growths. By introducing these two screening tests, we are strengthening our position in the field of personalized and predictive medicine. We are putting into practice methods that were only available in research a few years ago. Thanks to them, we can help detect the disease at a stage when treatment is most effective, and patients have the best chance of a full recovery.

PulmoScreen: Screening test for the diagnosis of lung cancer

Lung cancer remains the most common cause of death from malignant tumors in Czechia. Coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pressure typically appear only in advanced stages, when treatment is more complicated. Our new test can detect the risk much earlier—even before the tumor itself develops.

The test is based on the detection of epigenetic changes, specifically methylation of the SHOX2, RASSF1A and PTGER4 genes. These changes occur in cells that begin to respond to chronic stress, smoking, or inflammation.

"These epigenetic changes act as a warning signal – they indicate that cells are beginning to behave differently, even though they are not yet cancerous," explains the head of our laboratory, Mgr. Renáta Michalovská, Ph.D. "This allows us to detect the risk at a time when treatment is much more effective and often completely curative."

The test is performed on a single blood sample using Real-Time PCR technology. Screening is particularly suitable for:

  • people over 40 years of age,
  • smokers and former smokers,
  • people living in areas with increased pollution,
  • patients with COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or recurrent respiratory tract inflammation.

Early detection significantly improves prognosis – the difference between detection in the early and advanced stages can mean a lifetime.

ColonScreen: Screening test for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer has long been one of the most common cancers in our country. Although it is highly treatable if detected early, many people put off colonoscopies—out of fear, embarrassment, or lack of time. A new blood test offers a simple solution. font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;">The test detects methylation of the SEPT9, SDC2, and BCAT1 genes, whose changes appear in the early stages of the tumor. The result will determine whether everything is okay or whether more detailed testing is needed.

"We see the test as a helpful step for people who put off prevention. It is quick, painless, and can detect changes long before the first symptoms appear," adds Mgr. Michalovská.

The test is suitable for:

  • people over 40 years of age,
  • people with digestive problems (constipation, blood in stool, inflammation),
  • patients with a family history of colorectal cancer,
  • people with type 2 diabetes or an unhealthy lifestyle,
  • patients after treatment for colorectal cancer (as part of follow-up).

A negative result means a 94% probability that the disease is not currently developing. A positive result does not indicate a diagnosis – it only recommends a colonoscopy to be sure. The test does not replace the gold standard, but complements it as a first preventive step.

What do both tests have in common?

  • Non-invasive form – only a routine blood sample is required.
  • High sensitivity thanks to Real-Time PCR technology.
  • Focus on epigenetics, i.e., DNA changes that occur even before a tumor forms.
  • Fast results within a few days.
  • Can be repeated annually, similar to other screening programs.