#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

#525: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing

Author: The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast May 18, 2026 Duration: 46:02

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: 50

The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast
Podcast Episodes
REBOOT: #466 Cirrhosis Update with Scott Matherly [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:10
We have a classic episode for you. Update your approach to cirrhosis evaluation and management with Dr. Scott Matherly Associate Professor of Hepatology and Gastroenterology at Virginia Commonwealth University Claim CME…
#505 Demystifying Dizziness with Dr. David Hale [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:07:45
Dizziness can be a daunting presenting symptom. Demystify dizziness with us by breaking it down by timing and triggers, various pertinent physical maneuvers, and even an approach to chronic dizziness. We are joined by ou…
#504: Adult Eating Disorders in the GLP-1 Era [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:53
Explore how GLP-1 meds can help or harm eating disorders with Dr. Laura BridgeWhen weight-loss meds meet eating disorders: GLP-1 drugs are reshaping medicine, but could they also be fueling disordered eating? Join Dr. La…
#503: Falls with Dr. Alyson Michener and Suzanne Zukoski, MSPT [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:32
More than just mechanical!Keep older adult patients on their feet, literally! Learn to map the Age-Friendly 5Ms Framework onto multifactorial risk factor assessment and management and incorporate other evidence-based fal…
REBOOT: #471 Iron Deficiency Anemia with  Dr. Tom DeLoughery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:59
We have a classic episode for you.. Conquer the art of managing patients with iron deficiency anemia. We are joined by the amazing Dr. Tom DeLoughery, @Bloodman (Oregon Health & Science University).Claim CME for this epi…
#502 Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Dr. Aline Charabaty [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:21:17
Update your approach to the evaluation and management of IBD with Dr. Aline Charabaty (@DCharabaty). Review updates in management options, imaging modalities and preventive health recommendations. Claim CME for this epis…
#501 GERD vs NERD: Reflux Updates with Dr. James Callaway [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:02
Update your approach to the evaluation and management of GERD with Dr. James Callaway. Learn when to consider ambulatory reflux monitoring and how to determine if someone has an indication for long-term PPI therapy. Clai…