Mercy BioAnalytics Sets a Milestone in Lung Cancer Detection with Blood Tests at ASCO 2026

Groundbreaking Cancer Research at ASCO 2026

Mercy BioAnalytics, Inc., a leading innovator in blood-based early cancer detection, is gearing up to present two significant abstracts at the forthcoming 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting. This prestigious event will showcase findings from studies that utilized biospecimens sourced from the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) repository, aptly established to enable the validation of new biomarkers aimed at early lung cancer detection.

The NLST was a pivotal randomized controlled trial led by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), demonstrating a notable 20% reduction in lung cancer mortality through annual screenings with low-dose CT. Additionally, it created a comprehensive biospecimen repository to verify the efficacy of upcoming lung cancer biomarkers that could enhance or even replace conventional low-dose CT screening methods. So far, nearly 900 requests for data or biospecimens from this repository have been authorized, and Mercy's upcoming presentation is set to mark the first instance of utilizing blood specimens from NLST participants to preliminarily validate early detection biomarkers for lung cancer.

Key Findings from Mercy’s Research

The first of the two studies will delve into a blinded evaluation of a novel blood-based lung cancer screening assay among participants categorized as elevated-risk from the NLST. Remarkably, this blood-based screening method demonstrated sensitivity comparable to that of low-dose CT, successfully identifying lung cancers that the CT scans had overlooked. These findings strongly advocate for additional validations of the assay's utility in screening elevated-risk populations for lung cancer.

In parallel, the second study will unveil results from a blinded evaluation of a unique blood-based pulmonary nodule triage assay tailored for elevated-risk subjects identified in the NLST. Out of the LDCT-screened subjects, 6% received a Lung-RADS classification of 3 or 4A, indicating a clinical concern. However, given that immediate diagnostic assessments were not recommended for this group, Mercy's assay revealed a 43% cancer detection sensitivity in these instances. This sensitivity rate supports further investigation into the assay's role as a potential reflex approach for low-dose CT-detected pulmonary nodules.

Dr. Christine Berg, M.D., a prominent figure and retired lead investigator of the NLST, emphasized the importance of these preliminary findings, stating, "The results from the National Lung Screening Trial emphasizing a 20% decrease in lung cancer mortality with CT screening reshaped practice routines. Mercy's encouraging preliminary results underscore the reason the NCI developed the NLST biospecimen repository to validate promising blood biomarkers. A test, such as Mercy's, could substantially enhance lung cancer screening engagement and refine pulmonary nodule evaluations, potentially saving numerous lives."

Continuing the Fight Against Cancer

Following this significant milestone, Mercy BioAnalytics is poised to continue its advancements in blood-based methodologies that aim to improve early cancer detection and optimize decision-making processes regarding lung cancer screening and follow-ups. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the importance of identifying cancers at earlier stages cannot be overstated, as it substantially increases the chances of successful intervention and treatment.

Details regarding the specific presentations for the two accepted abstracts will be disclosed through the ASCO Annual Meeting program alongside Mercy's communication channels as the event date approaches. With a mission focused on alleviating suffering and saving lives through early cancer detection, Mercy BioAnalytics represents a beacon of hope for thousands at risk of lung cancer.

About Mercy BioAnalytics

Mercy BioAnalytics, Inc. is dedicated to early cancer detection endeavors, primarily focusing on ovarian and lung cancers using its proprietary Mercy Halo™ liquid biopsy platform. This platform leverages unique cancer signatures from blood-based extracellular vesicles, representing an innovative approach to cancer diagnostics.

In summary, Mercy BioAnalytics is solidifying its role as a revolutionary entity in the realm of cancer detection. With the foundational support of the NLST and continued innovations, the potential for improving lung cancer outcomes shines brightly on the horizon.