Cancer DNA blood test rolled out in NHS Wales after Welsh trial

NHS Wales is rolling out the QuicDNA blood test for later-stage lung cancer after a Welsh trial, and extra funding aims to expand the testing to other cancer types.

Wales is introducing the QuicDNA cancer DNA blood test as a standard diagnostic option for people with later-stage lung cancer following a Welsh trial. The programme has received extra funding from Welsh and UK government sources to speed the roll-out and expand it to other cancers such as colorectal, prostate and cancers of uncertain origin. The test is a form of liquid biopsy that analyses fragments of tumour DNA in blood and clinicians report it can return genetic readings within about two weeks. Officials involved say the test can help identify treatment options and be used to monitor how well treatment is working. Key facts: - The QuicDNA blood test is being rolled out across NHS Wales for later-stage lung cancer, reported as standard diagnostic practice after the trial. - Additional funding from Welsh and UK government sources is supporting an accelerated roll-out and plans to extend testing to colorectal, prostate and cancers of unknown primary. - The test analyses tumour DNA fragments in blood (a liquid biopsy) and clinicians report it can provide genetic results in around two weeks. - Follow-up blood tests are being offered for some lung cancer patients to monitor treatment response. - Experts and cancer charities report that Wales continues to face wider system challenges, including missed waiting-time targets and lower survival rates compared with some other countries. Summary: The QuicDNA blood test has moved from trial to routine use in NHS Wales for people with later-stage lung cancer, with funding to expand access to other cancer types. Officials report the test can deliver genetic results quickly and be used for monitoring, while broader improvements to cancer services remain a stated need.