Lung cancer: Liquid biopsy testing coming to N.B. [Video]

New Brunswick will soon introduce liquid biopsy – a less-invasive approach to lung cancer testing – through a new collaboration announced Monday morning in Moncton. 

The Department of Health is working with the Vitalité Health Network, AstraZeneca Canada and ResearchNB to bring the innovative technology to the province.

Lung cancer testing in New Brunswick currently requires an invasive tissue biopsy – something that can be difficult for patients who are frail or have a tumour in a challenging location.

The liquid biopsy approach is for patients who might not be able to undergo a regular biopsy.

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The process involves blood being drawn in a quick and easy manner and can be done close to where a patient lives, so they won’t have to travel or spend time recovering.

Dr. Rodney Ouellette, medical director of the …