#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

Author: The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast May 18, 2026 Duration: 48:58

Cut through the hype of Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) tests and learn how to counsel patients on the real-world utility, false-positive risks, and the "stage shift" debate of these emerging blood assays. We are joined by world-renowned oncologist Dr. Margaret Tempero,UCSF Cancer Early Detection and Interception, to discuss whether these tests are truly ready for clinical prime time.

Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org!


Patreon | Episodes | Subscribe | Spotify | YouTube | Newsletter | Contact | Swag! | CME


Show Segments

  • 00:00 Introduction 
  • 01:57 Current Cancer Screening Programs 
  • 06:05 Emerging Blood-Based Cancer Tests 
  • 11:55 Test Characteristics and Limitations 
  • 18:05 Practical Considerations for Patients 
  • 25:33 Direct-to-Consumer Testing/Whole Body MRIs
  • 36:46 Navigating Positive Test Results 
  • 45:10 Anxiety and Patient Education 
  • 47:08 Future Directions in Cancer Screening 
  • Outro

Credits

  • Producer, Writer, Show Notes, Infographic, Cover Art: Molly Heublein MD
  • Hosts: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP   
  • Reviewer: Sai S Achi MD,MBA,FACP
  • Showrunners: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP
  • Technical Production: PodPaste
  • Guest: Margaret Tempero, MD


Disclosures

Dr. Tempero reports the following financial relationships:
Grail (research support), Global Bio Access Fund (Advisor), Bristol Myers Squibb (Membership on Advisory Committees or Review Panels, Board Membership, etc.), Astra Zeneca (Membership on Advisory Committees or Review Panels, Board Membership, etc), Immunovia (Membership on Advisory Committees or Review Panels, Board Membership, etc.), Merck (advisory committee), Renovo Rx (advisory committee), Urogen (Advisor). Financial relationships have not ended.
The Curbsiders report no relevant financial disclosures. 

Sponsor: FIGS 

Curbsiders listeners can get 15% off. Just go to WearFIGS.com and use code FIGSRX.  

Sponsor: Freed

Try Freed Front Desk free for 7 days at getfreed.ai/front-desk.

Sponsor: Quince 

Go to Quince.com/curb for free shipping on your order  and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. 


Tune in to The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast for a direct line to practical clinical knowledge and the ever-evolving art of patient care. This isn't a dry lecture series; it's a dynamic conversation among practicing physicians who break down complex topics into actionable insights you can use. Each episode delves into the nuances of internal medicine, from managing common chronic conditions to interpreting the latest guidelines and navigating diagnostic dilemmas. You'll hear honest discussions about challenges at the bedside, evidence-based debates, and expert interviews that go beyond textbook summaries to reveal how medicine works in the real world. The podcast serves as both a continuing education resource and a professional companion, offering thoughtful analysis and clinical pearls that resonate whether you're a seasoned hospitalist, a resident in training, or a primary care provider. The focus is consistently on deepening understanding and improving daily practice, making the rounds or the clinic day feel a little less daunting and a lot more informed. Listen for a blend of curiosity, camaraderie, and a genuine commitment to mastering the craft of medicine, all delivered through engaging dialogue that feels like consulting with a trusted colleague.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast
Podcast Episodes
#528 Hospital Addiction Medicine 3.0 with Dr. Maggie Lowenstein [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:55
Become the Medetomi-Dean of AdmissionsStep up your hospital addiction medicine game by learning to troubleshoot methadone dose confirmations/missed doses and understanding how medetomidine’s emergency in the drug supply…
#527 Oncology Potpourri for the Hospitalist [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:38
Malignant Bowel Obstruction, VTE and Goals of CareMaster malignant bowel obstruction, cancer-associated thrombosis, and goals-of-care conversations in hospitalized patients with advanced cancer. Learn practical approache…
#524 SHM Converge 2026–Recap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:45:56
We go so that you want to go next year!Stay current with updates in hospital medicine from SHM Converge 2026 in Nashville, TN. Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org!Patreon | Episodes | Subscribe | Spoti…
#522: Healthy Aging with Dr. Elizabeth Eckstrom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:56
Join us as we explore practical, evidence-based strategies to help patients age with strength and confidence, and navigate the transition into retirement. We’re joined by Dr. Elizabeth Eckstrom (Oregon Health & Science U…
#521 Tales of the Pelvis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:53
Gain an insider’s perspective on the techniques of pelvic floor physical therapy. Learn when to refer, what to expect and what can be gained from working with your friendly neighborhood pelvic floor PT specialist. We’re…
#520: Healthspan Medicine, A Practical Approach [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:36
How do we help patients improve health span without letting wearables, biomarkers, and wellness trends take over the conversation? Learn how to think about CGMs in patients without diabetes, how to interpret early cardio…
#519 Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:57
Become a master of cortisol and learn how to identify and treat a common condition in patients with adrenal tumors! Join us as we learn about mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) with Dr. Irina Bancos (@irinabancos)…