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New blood test could detect ovarian cancer in early stages
26 Aug 2025

Researchers from the UK and US have developed a new blood test that could help detect ovarian cancer in its early stages.

The innovative diagnostic tool could "significantly improve" outcomes for women suffering from this deadly disease.

Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late, making treatment more difficult. The new test could change that by offering a simpler and an alternative method of detection.

Over 300,000 women (mostly aged over 50) are diagnosed with the disease each year worldwide.

How the blood test works
Test mechanism

The blood test works by looking for two different types of blood markers in people showing symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as pelvic pain and bloating.

It then uses machine learning to identify patterns that are hard for humans to spot.

This innovative approach could make diagnosing ovarian cancer earlier and with high accuracy, potentially improving upon current methods, which usually involve a combination of scans and biopsies.

Test detects what ovarian cancer sheds into bloodstream
Cancer markers

The blood test detects what ovarian cancer sheds into the bloodstream, even in its early stages.

Cancer cells release fragments into the blood that carry tiny, fat-like molecules known as lipids, along with certain proteins.

This combination of lipids and proteins are like a biological fingerprint for ovarian cancer, according to AOA Dx, which developed the test.

Test showed impressive results in clinical trials
Test efficacy

The blood test has shown impressive results in clinical trials.

In samples from the University of Colorado, it detected ovarian cancer with 93% accuracy across all stages and 91% in early stages.

Meanwhile, samples from the University of Manchester showed a slightly lower but still impressive 92% accuracy at all stages and 88% in early stages.

Test could improve early diagnosis of ovarian cancer
Research continuation

The promising results of this blood test could influence how ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated.

Dr. Abigail McElhinny, Chief Science Officer at AOA Dx, said their platform offers a great opportunity to improve early diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Emma Crosbie from the University of Manchester also emphasized the potential of AOA Dx's platform to significantly improve patient care and outcomes for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.