Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Trial Associated With Modest, Temporary Diagnostic Delays
New study evaluates system-level spillover effects of the NHS-Galleri trial on cancer care resources
Research Summary: A quasi-experimental, difference-in-differences analysis evaluated whether regional participation in the population-based NHS-Galleri trial (evaluating a cell-free DNA [cfDNA] multi-cancer early detection test) caused healthcare system spillover effects. Researchers found a modest, temporary increase in cancer diagnostic delay rates (waiting >28 days for a definitive diagnosis) for routine suspected cancers in trial regions during the first year, after which delay rates returned to baseline. The authors concluded this temporary bottleneck is unlikely to have compromised the primary trial findings, but emphasized that future population-scale screening initiatives must proactively monitor and budget for healthcare capacity strains.