Zydus Lifesciences has partnered with Apollo Hospitals through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to make the Shield multi-cancer detection (MCD) test available to patients across India. The initiative follows Zydus’s exclusive collaboration with Guardant Health to bring the innovative screening technology to the Indian market.
Developed by Guardant Health, the Shield MCD test uses methylation-based technology to identify signs of ten common cancers from a single blood sample. The test is designed for individuals aged 45 years and above who are considered to have an average risk of developing cancer.
The blood-based screening can detect several cancers, including breast, bladder, oesophageal, ovarian and pancreatic cancers. According to Zydus, these cancers account for a substantial share of cancer-related deaths in India, highlighting the need for improved early detection.
The Shield MCD test has also received Breakthrough Device designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), recognising its potential to enhance cancer screening beyond currently available methods.
Commenting on the collaboration, Zydus Lifesciences Managing Director Dr Sharvil Patel said: “As India’s leading oncology company, we are reimagining the role of diagnostics in cancer care. We are pleased to partner with Apollo Hospitals and Guardant Health to introduce Shield MCD in India, expanding access to an innovative screening technology that complements existing screening pathways.
“Through focused awareness initiatives, we continue to encourage timely screening and proactive healthcare with our range of companion diagnostics. By expanding access to precision diagnostics, we stand committed to unlocking new possibilities in patient care.”
Guardant Health AMEA CEO Simranjit Singh said: “We are pleased to bring the Shield MCD test to India through Apollo Cancer Centres and our longstanding commercial partner Zydus Lifesciences.”
Separately, in June 2024, Zydus Lifesciences’ venture capital arm, Zynext Ventures, announced a strategic investment in Promaxo, a company developing low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems.
The partnership between Zydus Lifesciences and Apollo Hospitals marks another step toward expanding access to advanced cancer screening in India. By introducing blood-based multi-cancer detection technology, the collaboration aims to support earlier diagnosis and strengthen preventive cancer care across the country.
(The above image is for illustrative purpose only)