Rhythm Biosciences Ltd has announced the commercial launch of its updated geneType TM Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Risk Assessment clinical test on January 14, 2026. This significant enhancement in personalized cancer risk prediction incorporates additional clinical and lifestyle factors alongside the established 140-SNP polygenic risk score (PRS). The result is improved predictive accuracy for both genders across a wider age range.
The enhanced geneType TM CRC test aims to facilitate earlier identification of individuals at heightened risk for colorectal cancer. This advancement is expected to enable more targeted screening pathways, complementing Rhythm’s existing ColoSTAT® blood-based CRC detection test.
Key Features and Clinical Applications
Recent validation data published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE demonstrates that the updated model offers improved predictive performance compared to traditional approaches. Current evidence suggests that nearly 50% of colorectal cancer cases could be prevented through healthy lifestyle modifications. By integrating lifestyle risk factors known to contribute to disease risk, the enhanced geneType TM CRC test seeks to identify a broader cohort of at-risk individuals who may benefit from earlier intervention and monitoring.
The clinical applications of the enhanced geneType TM CRC Risk Assessment test are significant. It offers improved risk stratification across genders, particularly benefiting the identification of higher-risk women. Additionally, it aids in identifying younger adults at risk of early-onset colorectal cancer, which supports earlier screening interventions. There is potential to increase participation in bowel cancer screening programs by providing personalized risk insights. In Australia, compliance with recommended bowel cancer screening programs remains below 50%.
Individuals classified as higher risk through the geneType TM CRC test may qualify for closer clinical monitoring via procedures such as colonoscopy, faecal immunochemical testing (FIT), or Rhythm’s blood-based CRC detection test, ColoSTAT®.
Dr. Erika Spaeth, Director of Clinical Affairs at Rhythm, emphasized the importance of this enhanced test, stating, “The enhanced geneType TM CRC test strengthens our ability to identify individuals at elevated risk earlier, supporting more targeted screening and complementing ColoSTAT’s® role in colorectal cancer detection.”
About Rhythm Biosciences
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Rhythm Biosciences Ltd (ASX: RHY) is an innovative medical diagnostics company focused on delivering simple, affordable blood tests for accurate and early detection of cancers. The company is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through early detection, aiming to reduce the global burden of cancer and save lives. Rhythm Biosciences actively seeks partnerships with like-minded global organizations to drive the commercialization and distribution of its diagnostic solutions.
For further information, visit rhythmbio.com and follow the company on LinkedIn and X.
