MCED Tests: A Win-Win for Consumers and Companies

By: Jennifer L. Douglas, Senior Research Director, Member Benefits, LIMRA and LOMA

February 2024

In the landscape of healthcare advancements, multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are a beacon of hope, with the potential to revolutionize early cancer diagnosis. Simultaneously screening for multiple types of cancer in otherwise healthy people, these blood tests can help detect early cancer in parts of the body that are not easily accessible for physical exam or biopsy.

LIMRA explored the public's perception of MCED tests in our July and October 2023 U.S. Consumer Sentiment surveys. With 2,006 and 3,000 adults respectively representing the U.S. population, the surveys provide insights into consumer opinions of the tests — in general and when made available by one’s life insurance company — and serve as a good reminder of the complicated dynamic between consumers and insurance companies.

Consumer Opinions of MCED Tests and Industry Implications

Despite their promise, today’s consumers are largely unaware of the existence and scope of MCED tests. Just 1 in 10 adults are somewhat or very familiar with the tests. Nonetheless, nearly 3 in 5 survey respondents (57 percent) said they’d be interested in taking a blood test to screen for cancer, many noting the benefits of early detection.

Consumers’ reaction to the test and how it might impact their thoughts about life insurance forces us to consider the potential implications for our industry if ...

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