Cancer

What's Measured?

The Galleri® test uses advanced methylation analysis to detect cancer-specific signatures in cell-free DNA (cfDNA)—genetic material that is naturally shed into the bloodstream by both healthy and cancerous cells. By scanning hundreds of thousands of methylation sites across the most informative regions of the genome, Galleri can distinguish between normal cfDNA and DNA associated with cancer.

When a cancer signal is detected, the test leverages these methylation patterns to predict the Cancer Signal Origin (CSO)—identifying the tissue or organ most likely associated with the signal. This insight helps healthcare providers focus diagnostic follow-up and accelerate the path to confirmation and care.

The Galleri® multi-cancer early detection test is recommended for adults who may be at elevated risk for cancer, particularly those aged 50 and older.

This test is intended to be used in addition to, not as a replacement for, routine cancer screening exams your healthcare provider may recommend (e.g., colonoscopy, mammogram, Pap smear).

Galleri is not recommended for:

  • Individuals who are pregnant

  • People aged 21 years or younger

  • Individuals currently receiving active cancer treatment

Adults aged 22 to 49 may be eligible if they have one or more of the following risk factors:

  • History of smoking

  • Cancer survivor

  • Overweight or obesity

  • Family history of cancer

  • Known genetic predisposition

  • Occupational exposure to carcinogens

  • Environmental exposure (e.g., radiation, toxins)

  • Autoimmune inflammatory conditions

  • Non-autoimmune chronic inflammatory conditions

  • Immunodeficiencies

  • History of solid organ transplant

Consult your healthcare provider to determine if the Galleri test is appropriate for you.

You’ll receive your test results approximately two weeks after your blood sample is processed at the GRAIL laboratory.

There are two possible outcomes:

  • No Cancer Signal Detected

  • Cancer Signal Detected

The majority of individuals—nearly 99%—will receive a No Cancer Signal Detected result, which is the desired outcome. In these cases, you should continue following your healthcare provider’s recommendations for routine cancer screening.

If a Cancer Signal is Detected, the Galleri test can also predict the tissue type or organ where the signal likely originated. This information provides your healthcare provider with valuable direction for further diagnostic evaluation and care planning.