Rhythm Biosciences (ASX:RHY) has launched its updated geneType colorectal cancer risk assessment test, integrating genetic, clinical, and lifestyle factors to improve early identification of individuals at elevated risk of colorectal cancer.
The enhanced test builds on the company’s established 140-SNP polygenic risk score and introduces gender-specific variables, delivering stronger predictive accuracy for both men and women, including younger adults.
Peer-reviewed validation published in PLOS ONE (Dite GS, et al., 2025) confirms the updated model outperforms traditional approaches.
By factoring in lifestyle risks, which contribute to approximately 50% of CRC cases, the test aims to support earlier intervention through targeted screening and complement Rhythm’s ColoSTAT blood-based CRC detection.
Key clinical applications include improved risk stratification, particularly for higher-risk women, identification of younger adults at risk of early-onset CRC, and encouraging participation in bowel cancer screening programs.
With compliance to recommended screening in Australia remaining below 50%, higher-risk individuals identified by geneType CRC may benefit from closer monitoring via colonoscopy, FIT testing, or ColoSTAT.
"The enhanced geneType CRC test strengthens our ability to identify at-risk individuals earlier, supporting more targeted screening and complementing ColoSTAT’s role in colorectal cancer detection," said Dr. Erika Spaeth, Director of Clinical Affairs at Rhythm.
At the time of reporting, Rhythm Biosciences' share price was $0.14.