Groundbreaking urine test could detect lung cancer years before symptoms appear

TechnologyHealth & Fitness
26 May 2026 • 9:30 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Groundbreaking urine test could detect lung cancer years before symptoms appear

  • Scientists funded by Cancer Research UK have developed a groundbreaking urine test for early lung cancer detection, which could be rolled out across the NHS within five years.
  • The innovative test identifies specific “zombie” cell proteins that signal the presence of early-stage lung cancer, potentially months or years before symptoms manifest.
  • This breakthrough aims to revolutionise early diagnosis, as most lung cancer cases in England are currently identified at advanced stages, significantly reducing survival chances.
  • Researchers at the University of Cambridge created a sensor that interacts with these zombie cell proteins, releasing an easily detectable compound into urine.
  • While further clinical trials are necessary, the simple urine analysis holds potential as a routine screening method and may also be adapted for detecting other lung diseases and cancers.

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