Blood Testing Service for Colorectal Cancer in Canada

Warnex Medical Laboratories launches the Septin9 blood testing service for colorectal cancer in Canada. Warnex's Septin9 test is based on Epigenomics' patented biomarker Septin9 and DNA methylation technologies.

Warnex is the first laboratory to offer Septin9 testing in Canada, after obtaining the non-exclusive rights from Epigenomics in May 2010. Prior to its launch, Warnex's Septin9 test was independently developed and successfully validated using clinical blood samples from colorectal cancer patients and individuals with no apparent disease as verified by colonoscopy.

"We are pleased to add this colorectal cancer test based on real-time PCR technology to our service offering as part of our continued commitment to delivering the most advanced specialized diagnostic services to Canadian healthcare professionals," said Mark Busgang, President and CEO of Warnex. "The Septin9 test is a convenient and specific blood test for colorectal cancer detection that can easily be integrated into the patient's routine physical, as it is non-invasive and does not require any drug or dietary restrictions."

"Colorectal cancer is curable if caught early enough and blood tests like this may play an important role in saving lives. We are delighted that patients in Canada will now also be able to benefit from Septin9 testing, alongside patients in the United States, Europe and the Middle East," commented Geert Nygaard, Chief Executive Officer of Epigenomics.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in Canada. In 2009, an estimated 22,000 Canadians were diagnosed with the disease and 9,100 died from it. As colorectal cancer is largely curable when detected in early, still localized stages, the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada recommends that all Canadians age 50 and over undergo screening with a test detecting blood in stool (fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test) at least once every two years. If a test is positive for blood, a colonoscopy should be performed to determine the cause of bleeding. Despite the clear benefits of colorectal cancer screening in reducing mortality from this disease, only 4% to 14% of eligible Canadians follow the screening recommendations. Innovative convenient screening methods could greatly increase compliance with current guidelines and thereby contribute to reducing mortality from colorectal cancer.