A revolutionary new genetic screening test performed using a simple saliva sample is proving pivotal in the early detection of prostate cancer, potentially saving lives – as demonstrated by two brothers whose diagnoses were made possible thanks to this innovative approach.
The test analyzes an individual’s genes to assess their predisposition to developing the disease, offering a more nuanced understanding than traditional screening methods.
For 71-year-old Dheeresh Turnbull, the Barcode One study revealed a concerning tumor despite earlier assessments suggesting a low risk of prostate cancer. His brother, Joel, also received a diagnosis of an aggressive form of the disease after participating in the same research initiative.
Experts are hailing this new technology as a potential game-changer in the fight against prostate cancer, with early results indicating its ability to identify men at elevated genetic risk. As stated by researchers, “This approach could truly turn the tide on prostate cancer.”
Dheeresh, a cognitive behavioral therapist from Brighton, joined the Barcode One study four years ago. He recounts his experience: “Once I agreed to participate in the trial, various tests were conducted. The results indicated I fell within the highest genetic risk category and prompted a referral to The Royal Marsden. Subsequent examinations confirmed the presence of prostate cancer. It highlighted that even with seemingly reassuring PSA scores, a life-threatening tumor can still be present if an individual carries specific genetic markers.”
He continued: “Without this trial, I likely wouldn’t have been diagnosed at such an early stage. Given my lack of family history, the diagnosis was completely unexpected. Because my saliva test flagged me as being at high risk, my younger brother, who wasn’t eligible to participate directly, signed up for testing.”
This proactive approach led to Joel’s own discovery of an aggressive tumor, further emphasizing the value of this new screening method.
The spit test offers several advantages over the standard PSA blood test:
- It produces fewer false positives.
- It detects cases that might otherwise be missed by a PSA test alone.
- It identifies a higher proportion of aggressive cancers.
- It remains effective even in cases where MRI scans return negative results.
“It’s incredible to think that because of this study, two lives have now been saved within my family,” Dheeresh reflected.
In other remarkable medical advancements, a recent breakthrough saw the birth of Amy, the first child in the UK born to a mother who received a donated uterus. Grace Davidson, 36, who lacked a functioning uterus, underwent a pioneering transplant from her sister in 2023. Two years later, she welcomed her daughter into the world.
Grace and her husband Angus, originally from Scotland but now residing in north London, chose to name their daughter Amy in honor of Grace’s sister whose generosity made this incredible journey possible.
