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Friday, June 4, 2010

Dogs' sniffers may be key to early cancer detection

Do dogs hold the key to early prostate cancer detection?

French researchers say "oui." 

In a recent study a dog trained to identify urine from patients with confirmed prostate cancer was presented with multiple samples and was able to distinguish between the patients with cancer and healthy men.

In early tests, the dog produced fewer false positives than the commonly used PSA test. Researchers say finding better tests is essential because the high rate of false positives in prostate cancer leads to unnecessary treatment.

The study, reported on WebMD, is just the latest in ongoing tests that indicate dogs have shown an ability to detect other cancers.

Researchers say the results don't mean that dogs will be "running around" hospitals sniffing patients (although that might provide employment for shelter dogs) but rather they might provide the basis for the development of an "electronic nose."

(Photo courtesy D. Sharon Pruitt)
Posted by Amy Worden @ 9:11 AM  Permalink | 1 comment
Comments   
  • 0 like this / 0 don't   •   Posted 11:58 AM, 06/04/2010
    The Nose Knows!
    — jcpaul


1 comments
About Amy Worden
Amy Worden is a politics and government reporter for the Inquirer. In that capacity she has explored a range of animal issues from dog kennel law improvements and horse slaughter to the comeback of peregrine falcons and pigeon hunts. From hamsters to horses, animals have always been part of her life. To pass along a tip or contact Amy, click here.
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