How pancreatic cancer urine test could save lives

Scientists have developed a new, simple urine test that could help detect pancreatic cancer at a much earlier stage. The Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund described it as "an exciting finding".

But how does the test work and why are charities urging caution?

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What is the test?

It is a simple urine test that searches for a protein "signature" – a combination of three proteins – which is present only in people with pancreatic cancer.

This could allow doctors to detect the disease much earlier than at present. Pancreatic cancer is often very advanced by the time it is detected. Only three per cent of patients are still alive five years after diagnosis – the lowest five-year survival rate of any common cancer.

How effective is it?

The signature was found to be 90 per cent accurate, meaning the test could save a considerable number of lives. Co-author Professor Nick Lemoine, of the Barts Cancer Institute, explains: "Patients are usually diagnosed when the cancer is already at a terminal stage, but if diagnosed at stage two, the survival rate is 20 per cent, and at stage one, the survival rate for patients with very small tumours can increase up to 60 per cent."

What are the downsides?

There are no downsides known as yet, but charities are urging caution. Fiona Osgun, of Cancer Research UK, said: "At the moment, we're a long way from knowing if this research could lead to a test that would help detect pancreatic cancer at an early stage, or who that test might benefit."

What next?

Scientists plan more research, focusing particularly on those whose genes put them at particular risk of pancreatic cancer. Lead researcher Dr Tatjana Crnogorac-Jurcevic said: "We've always been keen to develop a diagnostic test in urine as it has several advantages over using blood. We're hopeful that a simple, inexpensive test can be developed and be in clinical use within the next few years."