Kate Middleton, other celebrity diagnoses may stoke public’s cancer fears
Washington PostJul 04
Test Claims to Detect Prostate Cancer in 15 Minutes or Less
Image copyright: Dan Kitwood/Cancer Research UK/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Researchers at Aston University, Birmingham, have reportedly developed a new test that could detect prostate cancer in less than 15 minutes and with up to 90% accuracy.
The test is "a substantial leap forward in personalised medicine and oncology," said Igor Meglinski of the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies.
The Spin
Narrative A
Early detection is crucial in the fight against prostate cancer. This is particularly beneficial for younger men, as prostate cancer symptoms appear once the disease has progressed. Screening allows for earlier diagnosis, which can significantly improve survival chances. Combined with improvements to existing cancer screening programs, this breakthrough could help save many lives.
Narrative B
Despite major advances in cancer treatment and declining mortality rates, fear of cancer remains stubbornly high. The disease evokes deep-seated fears about pain, suffering, and dying. This fear often leads to unnecessary procedures and treatments, including when more research is necessary. Very fortunately, cancer is no longer the death sentence it once was.