About
Exact Sciences develops and delivers advanced diagnostic tests powered by genomic science and AI to fight cancer at every stage. Their flagship products include the Cancerguard® multi-cancer early detection test, Cologuard® and Cologuard Plus™ for colorectal cancer screening, and the Oncotype DX® suite of tests that analyze the unique genomic alterations of an individual's cancer to help guide personalized treatment decisions—including whether chemotherapy is necessary. The company also offers Oncodetect® for circulating tumor DNA monitoring, OncoExTra® for advanced tumor profiling, Oncoguard® Liver for hepatocellular carcinoma screening, and Riskguard® for hereditary cancer risk assessment. These tools serve patients, oncologists, surgeons, and health systems by bringing clarity and confidence to complex cancer-related decisions. Backed by rigorous clinical research, state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, and collaborations with leading institutions and advocacy organizations, Exact Sciences combines deep genomic expertise with data-driven insights to improve outcomes. Their tests are designed for convenience—many can be completed at home—and are supported by a robust provider and patient portal for order tracking and results management. Exact Sciences is particularly valuable for oncologists, primary care physicians, and health systems looking to integrate evidence-based, genomically-informed cancer screening and treatment guidance into their practice.
Key Features
- Multi-Cancer Early Detection: Cancerguard® screens for multiple cancer types from a single blood-based test, enabling earlier intervention when outcomes are most favorable.
- At-Home Colorectal Screening: Cologuard® and Cologuard Plus™ allow patients to complete colorectal cancer screening conveniently at home without a colonoscopy prep.
- Genomic Recurrence Scoring: Oncotype DX® tests analyze tumor genomics to predict cancer recurrence risk and guide decisions around chemotherapy for breast and colon cancers.
- Circulating Tumor DNA Monitoring: Oncodetect® uses liquid biopsy technology to monitor for residual or recurring cancer by detecting ctDNA in the bloodstream post-treatment.
- Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment: Riskguard® evaluates inherited genetic mutations that elevate a patient's risk for certain cancers, supporting proactive and preventive care planning.
Use Cases
- Oncologists using Oncotype DX® to determine whether early-stage breast cancer patients need chemotherapy, sparing low-risk patients from unnecessary treatment.
- Primary care physicians ordering Cologuard® for patients who are reluctant or unable to undergo colonoscopy, increasing colorectal cancer screening rates.
- Health systems integrating Cancerguard® into annual wellness programs to enable multi-cancer early detection at scale across their patient population.
- Genetic counselors leveraging Riskguard® to assess hereditary cancer risk in patients with a family history of BRCA or other cancer-related gene mutations.
- Post-treatment oncology teams using Oncodetect® ctDNA monitoring to detect minimal residual disease and plan surveillance strategies for colorectal cancer survivors.
Pros
- Clinically Validated Tests: All products are backed by rigorous peer-reviewed clinical research and validated in large-scale studies, giving providers confidence in results.
- Convenient Patient Experience: Several tests, including Cologuard, can be completed at home, reducing barriers to screening and improving patient compliance.
- Comprehensive Cancer Coverage: From hereditary risk to multi-cancer detection to post-diagnosis therapy guidance, Exact Sciences addresses the full cancer care continuum.
- Integrated Provider & Patient Portals: Dedicated login portals allow both patients and providers to track orders, access results, and manage information seamlessly.
Cons
- Cost and Insurance Variability: Test costs can be significant and coverage varies by insurance plan, potentially limiting access for some patients.
- Limited to Cancer Diagnostics: The platform is specialized exclusively for oncology use cases and is not applicable to other areas of medicine or general wellness.
- Requires Physician Order: Most tests require a healthcare provider's order, which adds a step and may delay access for patients without established care relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cancerguard® test?
Cancerguard® is Exact Sciences' innovative multi-cancer early detection test designed to screen for multiple types of cancer from a single sample, enabling earlier detection when treatment is most effective.
How does Cologuard® differ from a colonoscopy?
Cologuard® is a non-invasive, at-home stool DNA test that screens for colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. It does not require bowel prep, sedation, or a clinic visit, making it a more accessible alternative to traditional colonoscopy for eligible patients.
What does the Oncotype DX® test measure?
The Oncotype DX® test analyzes the genomic profile of a patient's tumor to generate a Recurrence Score®, which predicts the likelihood of cancer returning and helps oncologists determine whether chemotherapy is likely to benefit the patient.
Who can order Exact Sciences tests?
Tests must be ordered by a licensed healthcare provider. Exact Sciences works with oncologists, primary care physicians, surgeons, and health systems to facilitate ordering and result delivery.
Are Exact Sciences tests covered by insurance?
Many tests, including Cologuard, are covered by Medicare and major commercial insurers. Coverage varies by plan and test type; Exact Sciences provides coverage support resources for patients and providers.
