Multi-Cancer Early Detection

Please download the publication for full information.

Over the last few decades, life expectancy has plateaued in many major global markets, as Swiss Re explored in our 'Future of Life Expectancy' publication.The next wave of mortality improvements may come from addressing preventative lifestyle factors, as well as from advancements in medical interventions for one of today's biggest causes of death - cancer. Cancer currently accounts for nearly one in six deaths globally, according to the World Health Organization. 

Detection of cancer at the earliest stages increases survival rates. Pancreatic and lung cancer stand out as having very low survival rates, primarily due to late diagnosis. In contrast, prostate and breast cancer, which are respectively the most common cancers in men and women, have high survival probabilities principally as a result of early detection.

A promising advancement in screening is the use of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, a type of liquid biopsy. MCED tests are designed to identify the early presence of a wide range of cancers. These blood tests aim to detect biomarkers that may suggest the presence of cancer, potentially before current, established screening methods detect it or before patients first present with symptoms. Whilst MCED tests are still in development, they could eventually become a first-line screening and complementary diagnostic tool. 

For Life and Health (L&H) insurers, MCED tests may offer opportunities in supporting policyholders in living longer and healthier lives. The goals of MCED tests are clear: detect cancer earlier, which can allow for more effective treatment, improving survival rates and, ultimately, life expectancy. First generation MCED tests are in clinical trials, with some already commercially available. Work in this space is ongoing and efficacy and clinical utility of these tests continue to be assessed.  

As this new technology is in its infancy, there are still challenges for widespread clinical use. MCED tests may suggest early indications of cancer which cannot be verified using existing gold-standard diagnostic methods, therefore postponing treatment until a definitive diagnosis can be made. Early versions of these tests may lead to overdiagnosis, potentially resulting in patient distress, increased unnecessary treatments and related costs. L&H insurers will need to undertake risk assessments of MCED tests to evaluate potential implications on product design, underwriting guidelines, pricing and claims.

The full publication contains more detailed information on opportunities and challenges for MCEDs, the implications of MCED testing for L&H insurance companies, and an overview of selected MCED tests in development. See below to download the full report.