The simple check will pick up on antibodies in the blood produced as the body reacts to the onset of bowel cancer. The collaboration between researchers from the Biomedical Diagnostics Institute at Dublin City University and Irish biotech firm Randox promises that the new test will be a significant breakthrough in the diagnosis of bowel cancer and could be available for widespread use by the end of next year.

Studies show that the identification of these very specific biomarkers will allow for a test that is more sensitive and accurate than existing screening. This means it will not only save lives through earlier and more reliable diagnosis but, because it is non-invasive, it is hoped it will encourage more people to come forward for bowel cancer testing. Disadvantages of the current screening method, Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), include low sensitivity and, due to the nature of the sample required for these tests, worryingly low levels of patient uptake. The new blood test will do away with the need for FOBT and will prevent unnecessary and costly colonoscopies for people without the disease.