Online advertisements for an early detection blood test for ovarian cancer are raising concerns among health experts, who warn that the test may cause more harm than good due to high false-positive rates and lack of robust evidence. The ads, run by BCAL Diagnostics, describe ovarian cancer as a 'silent killer' and urge women to be 'proactive' by visiting a website to order the test for $1,495. While the test requires a GP referral, critics argue that the marketing could lead to unnecessary anxiety and medical procedures.
Test Details and Target Audience
The blood test works by analyzing DNA fragments in the bloodstream for chemical tags and genetic patterns associated with cancer, using machine learning to detect abnormal signals. BCAL Diagnostics states the test is designed only for individuals at higher risk of ovarian cancer, such as those with a family history or genetic predisposition. However, the advertisements target a broader audience, potentially including women with general symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, or frequent urination. The test has not been approved by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Accuracy and Expert Concerns
The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation noted limited peer-reviewed data, with a 2025 study including only 42 ovarian cancer samples. The manufacturer reports a sensitivity of 78.2%, meaning it may miss cancer in about one in five cases, and a specificity of 94%, resulting in a 6% false-positive rate. Dr. Barry Kramer, a cancer-screening expert, highlighted the impact: if 100,000 women over 50 are tested, about 23 of the 30 with cancer would be correctly identified, but nearly 6,000 without cancer would receive false positives. These women would face further testing, psychological distress, and additional costs. Dr. Brooke Nickel from the University of Sydney added that there is no robust evidence showing blood-based early detection improves health outcomes, even in high-risk groups.
Balancing Benefits and Harms
Anita Dessaix from the Cancer Council emphasized that early detection is vital but must be supported by evidence that benefits outweigh harms. David Hunt of the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation acknowledged the test may have some value but does not yet meet the threshold for sensitivity and specificity. Experts urge women not to ignore symptoms but to consult their GP rather than rely on unproven tests.
