#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

From The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast by The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast

May 18, 2026 · 49 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the real-world utility and implications of Multi-Cancer Early Detection tests with expert insights from Dr. Margaret Tempero.

Cut through the hype of Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) tests and learn how to counsel patients on the real-world utility, false-positive risks, and the "stage shift" debate of these emerging blood assays. We are joined by world-renowned oncologist Dr. Margaret Tempero , UCSF Cancer Early Detection and Interception , to discuss whether these tests are truly ready for clinical prime time. Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org ! Patreon | Episodes | Subscribe | Spotify | YouTube | Newsletter | Contact | Swag! | CME Show Segments 00:00 Introduction 01:57 Current Cancer Screening Programs 06:05 Emerging Blood-Based Cancer Tests 11:55 Test Characteristics and Limitations 18:05 Practical Considerations for Patients 25:33 Direct-to-Consumer Testing/Whole Body MRIs 36:46 Navigating Positive Test Results 45:10 Anxiety and Patient Education 47:08 Future Directions in Cancer Screening Outro Credits Producer, Writer, Show Notes, Infographic, Cover Art: Molly Heublein MD Hosts: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP Reviewer: Sai S Achi MD,MBA,FACP Showrunners: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP Technical Production: PodPaste Guest: Margaret Tempero…

People in this episode

Hosts: Matthew Watto, Paul Williams

Guest: Margaret Tempero

Topics covered

  • Multi-Cancer Early Detection
  • cancer screening
  • blood tests
  • patient counseling
  • false-positive risks
  • clinical utility

Keywords

  • MCED
  • cancer detection
  • blood assays
  • screening programs
  • patient education
  • test limitations

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: UCSF Cancer Early Detection and Interception, Grail, Global Bio Access Fund, Bristol Myers Squibb, Astra Zeneca

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