Czech blood test for pancreatic cancer gets US patent

A blood test developed by Czech scientists to detect pancreatic cancer has received a US patent, the Czech News Agency reported on Thursday. Created by the University of Pardubice, the method analyzes lipids in blood plasma to spot early signs of the disease.

The test is now undergoing clinical trials by Czech company Lipidica, in partnership with 14 hospitals. They are currently looking for volunteers at risk of pancreatic cancer to take part.

Thanks to the US patent, this innovative test is now legally protected in a key global market. It is also patented in several other countries, including the European Union, Japan, and Singapore.