India Pharma Outlook Team | Saturday, 04 July 2026
Zydus Lifesciences has partnered with Apollo Hospitals to introduce the Shield Multi-Cancer Detection Test, a blood-based screening test that can detect signals linked to 10 different cancers from a single blood sample.
The partnership aims to make early cancer detection more accessible by offering a simple screening option for adults aged 45 years and above who are at average risk of developing cancer.
The New Cancer Blood Test has been developed by US-based Guardant Health and will be made available through Apollo Hospitals under an agreement with Zydus Lifesciences. The companies believe the test can help identify cancer at an earlier stage, when treatment is often more effective.
"Through focused awareness initiatives, we continue to encourage timely screening and proactive healthcare with our range of companion diagnostics," said Zydus Lifesciences Ltd Managing Director Sharvil Patel.
The Shield Multi-Cancer Detection Test is designed to identify cancer-related signals in the blood. Unlike traditional screening methods that usually focus on one type of cancer, this blood test checks for multiple cancers through a single sample.
The test screens for signs associated with:
The screening is recommended for adults aged 45 years and above who are considered to be at average risk. However, it is not intended to replace existing screening methods such as mammograms or colonoscopies. Instead, it is expected to work alongside them to improve cancer screening and help detect cancers that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Also Read: Top Stories in Pharma Industry: Weekly Highlights (Jun 29 - Jul 3)
The collaboration between Zydus Lifesciences and Apollo Hospitals is focused on expanding access to advanced cancer screening technology across India.
Speaking about the partnership, Zydus Lifesciences Managing Director Sharvil Patel said innovative screening technologies can encourage people to take a more proactive approach toward their health and improve access to early diagnosis.
Apollo Hospitals Group Chairman, Prathap C Reddy said "Our collaboration with Zydus Lifesciences marks an important milestone in advancing accessible, patient-friendly cancer screening solutions for the people of India."
"Together, we are expanding access to innovative screening technologies that can support earlier clinical evaluation and help shape the future of cancer care in India," said Guardant Health AMEA Chief Executive Officer Simranjit Singh.
While the Shield Multi-Cancer Detection Test offers a new option for early cancer detection, it is important to understand that it is a screening test and not a diagnostic test.
Key points include:
The launch of the New Cancer Blood Test reflects a growing focus on preventive healthcare and advanced diagnostics in India. By combining a simple blood test with existing screening programs, the partnership hopes to improve early cancer detection and help more patients begin treatment at an earlier stage.
Zydus Lifesciences is one of India's leading pharmaceutical companies, engaged in developing, manufacturing, and marketing medicines, vaccines, biologics, and healthcare products in India and international markets.
Apollo Hospitals is one of India's largest integrated healthcare providers, operating a nationwide network of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers with a strong focus on advanced patient care and preventive healthcare.
