PROVINCE FIRST TO LICENSE MADE-IN-SASKATCHEWAN BLOOD TEST FOR COLORECTAL CANCER RISK

Detecting colorectal cancer in its early, curable, stages is the goal behind Phenomenome Discoveries Inc.'s licensing of a diagnostic blood test in Saskatchewan.

Colorectal cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. Every year approximately 650 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in this province and 250 people die from the disease.

Phenomenome Discoveries Inc.'s test measures blood levels of a novel metabolite that is low in people with colorectal cancer.

"This is an encouraging development right here in Saskatchewan that will help with the early detection of cancer," Premier Brad Wall said. "This has the potential to make a big difference to Saskatchewan people dealing with cancer."

"Determining cancer risk through a blood test has the potential to strengthen cancer care for Saskatchewan people, something that is a high priority for our government," Health Minister Don McMorris said.

The trial for the blood test took place over two years and involved more than 5,000 patients in the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region. The results of this clinical trial indicate that the test led to the diagnosis of 87 per cent of early stage cancers, making it the most sensitive blood test available for colorectal cancer.

"Colorectal cancer is more than 90 per cent preventable and easily treated when found in the early stages," Saskatchewan Cancer Agency Chief Executive Officer Scott Livingstone said. "Finding ways to detect and prevent the disease is an important aspect of our work in the fight against cancer."

"We are pleased to be able to detect such high rates of early stage colorectal cancer using a non-invasive blood test, and that Saskatchewan will be the first province to license the right to use it," Phenomenome Discoveries Inc. Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dayan Goodenowe said.

Saskatchewan has made reducing colorectal cancer mortality a priority. Continuing to expand screening programs that detect early stage cancer is the best way to achieve this goal, allowing Saskatchewan to maintain a leadership role in cancer screening.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tyler.mcmurchy@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594

Gladys Wasylenchuk
Saskatchewan Cancer Agency
Regina
Phone: 306-791-2144
Email: gladys.wasylenchuk@saskcancer.ca
Cell: 306-501-7366

Alix Hayden
Phenomenome Discoveries Inc.
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-244-8233 ex 210
Cell: 306-229-4029