Colorectal cancer patients to have free test to decide optimal treatment plan

Merck Serono have announced that all colorectal cancer patients in the UK will now have access to a free KRAS biomarker test due to additional funding made available by the company.

The test, which will now be available through the NHS, is hoped to be able to speed up treatment decisions for patients going on to develop secondary (metastatic colorectal cancer). By understanding an individual’s biomarkers in the KRAS test enables their doctors to personalise their treatment plan in the aim of prolonging their life. The test, which until now was only available for metastatic patients, will now allow both primary and secondary bowel cancer treatments to become specialised earlier ensuring that patients will receive the right type of medication for them.

A substance that can be measured to help healthcare professionals to assess normal processes, disease processes or a person's response to treatment. Full medical glossary
A common name for the large and/or small intestines. Full medical glossary
Abnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body. Full medical glossary
rheumatoid arthritis Full medical glossary
Relating to the rectum, the lowest part of the bowel leading to the anus. Full medical glossary