Cancer Screening Tests Compared
Compare multi-cancer early detection tests (MCED), colorectal cancer screening, and cancer monitoring services. Understand sensitivity, FDA status, and who each test is best for.
See Our Top Picks →Important: These tests complement but do not replace standard cancer screening guidelines (mammograms, colonoscopy, etc). Discuss with your physician before ordering.
Test Comparison
| Test | Price | Cancers | Sensitivity | Specificity | FDA Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galleri by GRAIL | $949 | 50+ cancers | 51.5% overall | 99.5% | FDA Approved |
| Shield by Guardant | $895 | Colorectal only | 84% for CRC | 90% | FDA Approved |
| Cologuard by Exact Sciences | $649 | Colorectal only | 92% for CRC | 87% | FDA Approved |
| Signatera by Natera | Variable | Patient-specific | Varies by cancer | >99.8% | FDA Approved |
| Oncotype DX | Variable | Breast recurrence risk | N/A | N/A | Guideline recommended |
| Prenetics CIRCLE | $399 | 5 cancers | Variable | Variable | FDA Approved |
| Foundation Medicine | Variable | 324 genes | N/A | N/A | FDA Approved |
| Tempus | Variable | 648 genes | N/A | N/A | CLIA certified |
| Freenome | Variable | Multiple | Not disclosed | Not disclosed | In development |
| Delfi Diagnostics | Variable | Lung cancer | 80% sensitivity | 58% specificity | FDA Approved |
Provider Profiles
Galleri by GRAIL
Detects 50+ cancer types • Predicts cancer signal origin • Single blood draw • Available with Rx
Shield by Guardant
FDA-approved for CRC • Medicare coverage • Blood-based alternative to colonoscopy • Primary screening option
Cologuard by Exact Sciences
At-home stool collection • High sensitivity for CRC • Insurance covered • Established track record
Signatera by Natera
Personalized cancer monitoring • Detects recurrence early • Treatment response tracking • Tumor-informed approach
Oncotype DX
Predicts chemotherapy benefit • Recurrence risk score • Tumor tissue analysis • Guides treatment decisions
Prenetics CIRCLE
Direct to consumer • 5 cancer types • Affordable multi-cancer • Global availability
Foundation Medicine
324-gene genomic panel • 324 genes • FDA-approved companion diagnostic • Treatment matching
Tempus
Largest genomic database • AI-powered insights • Clinical trial matching • Liquid + tissue options
Freenome
Multiomics approach • AI-powered • CRC test in development • Blood-based screening
Delfi Diagnostics
Lung cancer screening • Fragmentomics technology • Complements LDCT • High-risk patients
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
What is multi-cancer early detection (MCED)?
MCED tests analyze blood samples for signals (like DNA methylation patterns or circulating tumor DNA) that may indicate cancer. Galleri can detect signals from 50+ cancer types, many of which lack traditional screening methods. However, sensitivity varies by cancer type and stage.
Should I get Galleri or stick with traditional screening?
MCED tests like Galleri are meant to complement, not replace, standard screening (mammograms, colonoscopy, Pap smears). They may catch cancers without standard screening options but have modest overall sensitivity (~50%). Best for higher-risk individuals after discussing with a doctor.
Is Shield better than colonoscopy?
Shield is an FDA-approved blood test alternative for colorectal cancer screening with 83% sensitivity for CRC. Colonoscopy remains gold standard (~95% sensitivity) and can remove polyps. Shield is best for people who decline or can't have colonoscopy.
Does insurance cover cancer screening tests?
Cologuard is often covered by insurance for eligible individuals (age 45+). Shield has Medicare coverage. Galleri is not yet covered by most insurance. Always check with your insurer for specific coverage.