Low-cost blood test to detect brain cancer could be available in three years

A low-cost blood test for the early detection of brain cancer could be in UK hospitals with three years, according to researchers.

Clinspec Diagnostics Limited is developing the new technology, which would give doctors an accurate test for the disease and reduce delays in referral times.

Brain cancer is very difficult to detect and diagnose, with the main symptom being a headache, but it reduces life expectancy more than any other tumour type.

The firm, which is based at the University of Strathclyde, believes the potentially life-saving tests could be used in UK hospitals within three to four years.

Researcher Matthew Baker said: “It’s exciting to be able to move the science from the laboratory to the clinic and I look forward to releasing the test for patients.strathclydeisknown for its innovative environment, which fosters research that makes a positive impact on people’s lives.

“Today marks an important milestone for Clinspec Diagnostics and the health services it will support – and ultimately the patients and families that will benefit from the test.”

Currently 38 per cent of patients have to visit their GP more than five times before being diagnosed with brain cancer.