Birmingham Firm's AI Genetics Screening Called 'Pivotal' for Cancer Survival

A West Midlands company has described plans to use cutting-edge technology for early cancer detection as a 'pivotal moment' in the fight against the disease. Quinton-based early cancer testing firm Nonacus is leveraging artificial intelligence to provide rapid, inexpensive, and pain-free bladder cancer diagnostics, which could significantly improve patient outcomes.

National Cancer Plan and Genetic Focus

Jeff Bousfield, CEO of Nonacus, emphasized that the Government's National Cancer Plan's focus on genetics is crucial. The plan aims to enhance cancer care so that three out of four people diagnosed with cancer survive for five years or more by 2035. This ambitious target underscores the importance of innovative approaches like those being developed in Birmingham.

Bousfield stated, "The publication of the National Cancer Plan marks a pivotal moment in harnessing genetics, so every patient can access genetic testing in the fight against both cancer risk we inherit from our parents and cancer risk we develop during our lifetimes."

AI-Powered Bladder Cancer Diagnostics

Nonacus has developed new AI technology that offers a less invasive and cheaper alternative to current tests. Instead of using a camera on a scope inserted into the bladder, their method involves:

Sending test kits to patients for urine sample collection.
Analyzing DNA fragments from the urine to detect cancer presence and type.
Assessing required treatment and urgency of cases.

This approach is expected to have a positive impact on NHS waiting lists and finances, making diagnostics more accessible and efficient.

Support and Trials in the NHS

Over the past three years, Nonacus has provided support to the NHS Jewish BRCA Testing Programme and recently trialed their at-home early bladder cancer test within the NHS. Bousfield highlighted, "We have seen first-hand the impact of genomic testing for at-risk communities and are proud that Nonacus' expertise has a meaningful role to play in delivering the plan's ambitions."

Last year, the company welcomed then Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle and West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker to observe their work firsthand, showcasing the regional and national interest in their advancements.

Future Role in Cancer Care

As the NHS implements the National Cancer Plan, companies like Nonacus will be crucial in providing fast, accurate, and scalable testing solutions. Bousfield added, "We stand ready to support the delivery of the plan's most impactful elements - delivering at-home cancer testing to improve patient survival and quality of life."

This initiative represents a significant step forward in using technology and genetics to combat cancer, with Birmingham at the forefront of these innovative efforts.