Why is everyone recommending ctDNA screening?
Many people talk about doing ctDNA, which actually uses ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) detection technology to analyze tumor DNA fragments in the blood, serving as a method for early or ultra-early cancer screening. Thus, ctDNA is no longer just a laboratory tool but has become a powerful weapon in cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
This test only requires drawing a few milliliters of blood to detect traces of tumor DNA released into the bloodstream, regarded as a "liquid biopsy." In recent years, it has become increasingly recommended in private medical centers, especially suitable for regular health tracking under Hong Kong's high-pressure lifestyle.
Where does ctDNA screening excel? Here are 3 major advantages!
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High Sensitivity
Studies show that ctDNA can detect extremely low concentrations of tumor DNA, with sensitivity up to 99.8%, enabling earlier detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) than traditional imaging, with low risks of false positives and missed diagnoses. -
Low Invasiveness, No Radiation
It only requires a single venous blood draw, without surgery or radiation exposure, making it ideal for high-risk groups to regularly monitor treatment effects or recurrence risks, with a comfortable and quick process. -
Broad Application, Suitable for Multiple Cancers
Applicable to solid tumors like breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and liver cancer for screening and personalized treatment guidance, it comprehensively reflects tumor heterogeneity, more precise than single tumor markers.
Why has ctDNA suddenly become mainstream?
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Mature Liquid Biopsy Technology
Recent advances in ctDNA NGS (next-generation sequencing) have allowed blood tests to replace some tissue biopsies. Post-pandemic, acceptance of biotech has risen, with widespread medical adoption in precision medicine. -
Complement to Traditional Methods
Previously reliant on tumor markers like CEA and AFP, which are easily affected by inflammation, and CT/MRI struggling with early small tumors; ctDNA provides complementary high precision, more reliably predicts recurrence, and reduces unnecessary treatments. -
Especially Suitable for High-Risk Groups
For those with cancer family history, advanced age, smoking, obesity, or long-term pollutant exposure, Hong Kong doctors often recommend including it in checkups, particularly practical in liver cancer high-incidence areas.
ctDNA vs mRNA: Which is Better for Cancer Screening?
While mRNA tests focus on analyzing messenger RNA expression patterns from blood cells to identify potential cancer signals through gene activity profiles, ctDNA directly detects actual tumor-derived DNA fragments circulating in the bloodstream, offering superior specificity for solid tumor monitoring and earlier recurrence prediction. ctDNA excels in real-time tracking of treatment response and minimal residual disease with higher sensitivity (up to 99.8%), whereas mRNA may be more prone to non-specific signals from inflammation or other conditions. For comprehensive cancer risk assessment, especially in high-risk individuals, ctDNA is strongly recommended as the more precise, actionable "liquid biopsy" tool—making it the preferred choice over mRNA for proactive health management.
Human Health offers several cancer risk assessment programs available on its online store, including:
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SPOT-MAS Women 10 Types Multi-Cancer Early Detection (HCDNA01): HK$3,860 (original HK$9,650)
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SPOT-MAS Men 8 Types Multi-Cancer Early Detection (HCDNA02): HK$3,160 (original HK$7,900)
All programs can be purchased through the Human Health eShop.
For inquiries, please call the service hotline at 2397 2111.



