NHS England recently announced the rollout of a new liquid biopsy genomic test for eligible lung cancer patients nationwide.
This marks a significant step forward in cancer care and reflects the longstanding and ongoing collaboration between the regional Genomic Medicine Service Alliances (GMSAs), Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLHs) including our colleagues at the NHS North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, clinical teams, and industry partners.
Tumours can shed fragments of DNA, known as circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), into the bloodstream.
Liquid biopsy tests capture and analyse ctDNA to identify important genetic changes, enabling quicker and more precise diagnoses.
Key benefits of the new test include:
Faster results: In the North West, we have supported, and continue to support the pilot programme since 2023. The pilot has shown that liquid biopsy can deliver genomic findings significantly faster than traditional tissue biopsy methods.
Economic impact: An independent analysis estimated that implementing the test could save the NHS approximately £11 million annually.
Wider access: The NHS is leading globally as the first healthcare system to integrate liquid biopsy into routine diagnostics. The test is now included in the National Genomic Test Directory, ensuring 10,000 eligible patients across England can potentially benefit from it.
Building on the success in lung cancer, the NHS is also evaluating the use of liquid biopsy technology for other cancer types.
As co-leads for the national ctDNA Tumour Biomarker Genomic Network of Excellence, and through continued regional and national collaboration, the genomic medicine service is the North West is delivering tangible, cutting-edge diagnostic tools to patientswho need them most, laying the foundation for future innovations in cancer care.