Abbott Launches FDA-Approved SimpleScreen CRC Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening

Abbott (ABT) launched SimpleScreen CRC in the U.S. on September 30, 2026, an FDA-approved blood test for colorectal cancer screening in average-risk adults aged 45 and older. The test analyzes circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from a standard blood draw. In a clinical study of more than 48,000 adults, SimpleScreen CRC showed 81.1% sensitivity for colorectal cancers and correctly identified 90.4% of people without colorectal cancer or advanced precancerous lesions. It is covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket costs for eligible Medicare Part B patients; Medicare Advantage patients may incur out-of-pocket costs. The launch expands Abbott's colorectal cancer screening portfolio, which includes the Cologuard Plus stool-based test. Patients with a positive result should receive a follow-up colonoscopy. ABT traded between $81.97 and $135.45 over the past year and was recently at $99.34, down 1.52%.