What Cancers Does the Galleri Test For? A Comprehensive Guide

What Cancers Does the Galleri Test For? A Comprehensive Guide

By Jillian Foglesong Stabile, MD, FAAFP, DABOM

Early detection is one of the most effective strategies in the fight against cancer. While traditional screening tests—like mammograms or colonoscopies—target specific cancer types, new advances like the Galleri test offer a broader, more proactive approach. Developed by GRAIL, the Galleri test is a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test designed to identify over 50 different types of cancer, many of which currently lack routine screening options.

In this guide, we explore the types of cancers the Galleri test can detect, who it’s for, how it works, and how it fits into a modern preventive health strategy.

What Is the Galleri Test?

The Galleri test is a cutting-edge blood test, also known as a multi-cancer detection test (MCED), that screens for multiple types of cancer by detecting DNA fragments shed by tumors into the bloodstream, known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).^[1] Using advanced methylation pattern recognition and machine learning, Galleri can identify a cancer signal and predict where in the body the cancer may have originated, referred to as the Cancer Signal Origin (CSO).

Unlike standard screening tools, which typically focus on one cancer at a time, Galleri offers a more comprehensive overview. The test is currently intended for adults aged 50 and older or those at elevated risk for developing cancer. It is not designed for individuals with symptoms of cancer, those currently undergoing cancer treatment, pregnant individuals, or anyone under the age of 21.^[2]

What Types of Cancer Does Galleri Test For?

Galleri can detect a broad range of cancers, including many for which there are no standard screening protocols. Based on GRAIL’s published data, the following categories and specific cancer types are included in the test’s detection panel:^[3]

Head, Neck, & Respiratory

• Larynx
• Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses
• Nasopharynx
• Oropharynx (p16-) and Hypopharynx
• Oropharynx (HPV-Mediated, p16+)
• Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Head and Neck
• Oral Cavity
• Lung
• Mesothelioma, Malignant Pleural

Reproductive & Urinary

• Uterus (Carcinoma, Carcinosarcoma, Sarcoma)
• Vulva
• Cervix
• Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasms
• Vagina
• Testis
• Penis
• Prostate
• Ovary, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneum
• Kidney
• Bladder
• Ureter, Renal Pelvis
• Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

Digestive & Gastrointestinal

• Esophagus and Esophagogastric Junction
• Stomach
• Pancreas (Exocrine)
• Ampulla of Vater
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST)
• Bile Ducts
• Gallbladder
• Liver
• Colon and Rectum
• Small Intestine
• Anus
• Appendix

Skeletal & Neuroendocrine

• Bone
• Soft Tissue Sarcoma
• Thoracic Visceral Organs
• Trunk and Extremities
• Retroperitoneum

Breast & Skin

• Melanoma
• Merkel Cell Carcinoma
• Breast Cancer

Blood & Lymphatic

• Leukemia
• Lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin)
• Plasma Cell Myeloma and Plasma Cell Disorders

This comprehensive list illustrates the Galleri test’s broad diagnostic reach, making it a potentially powerful tool in early cancer detection.

Pancreatic cancer, in particular, has shown a relatively high sensitivity in Galleri testing (~83.9% for stages III-IV).^[4]

How Accurate Is the Galleri Test?

The Galleri test has a specificity of 99.5%, meaning false positives are rare.^[5] Among those who test positive, ~40% are confirmed to have cancer after diagnostic testing.

Sensitivity varies by stage:^[1]

• Stage I: ~17%
• Stage II: ~40%
• Stage III: ~77%
• Stage IV: ~90%

This means the test is more effective at detecting later-stage cancers than early-stage ones.

What Cancers Might Be Missed?

The Galleri test may miss cancers that release little or no ctDNA—such as some brain cancers or very early tumors.^[1] Sensitivity is also lower for cancers like melanoma, bladder cancer, and kidney cancer in early stages.

Importantly, a “Cancer Signal Not Detected” result does not guarantee that a person is cancer-free. Galleri is intended to complement—not replace—standard screening tests.^[6]

Who Should Consider the Galleri Test?

The Galleri test is recommended for:

• Adults aged 50 or older
• People with a family history of cancer
• Those with elevated genetic or lifestyle risks

It is not recommended for individuals who:^[4]

• Are under age 22
• Are pregnant
• Have symptoms of cancer
• Are currently undergoing cancer treatment

How Does the Test Work?

The testing process includes:

1. A healthcare provider orders the test.
2. A blood sample is collected.
3. The sample is analyzed in a CLIA-certified lab.
4. Results are delivered in a few weeks.

Results include:

• Cancer Signal Detected: ctDNA associated with cancer is identified, along with a Cancer Signal Origin.
• Cancer Signal Not Detected: No ctDNA signal found, but this does not rule out cancer entirely.

Galleri vs Routine Cancer Screenings

Galleri does not replace tests like mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, PSA tests, or low-dose CT scans. Instead, it complements them—especially for cancers without screening options.^[5]

Addressing Concerns and Controversies

Critics warn about overdiagnosis, unnecessary anxiety, and invasive follow-ups from MCED testing.^[7] However, ongoing studies suggest improving protocols will help optimize early cancer detection and reduce late-stage diagnoses.^[8]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Galleri detect thyroid cancer?

Galleri is not specifically designed to detect thyroid cancer, although it may detect signals from nearby head and neck cancers.^[3]

Can Galleri detect prostate cancer?

Yes. Prostate cancer is one of the detectable types, but Galleri should not replace PSA testing.^[3]

Can it detect multiple myeloma?

Yes. Galleri can detect certain blood cancers, including multiple myeloma.^[3]

How much does the Galleri test cost?

Approximately $949. Most insurance plans do not currently cover the test.^[2]

How often should I take it?

Generally annually, but frequency should be discussed with a healthcare provider.^[2]

Final Thoughts

The Galleri test represents an exciting advancement in cancer detection, offering screening insight for cancers that otherwise go unnoticed until late stages. However, it is not a replacement for routine screenings, and limitations remain—especially for early-stage detection.

Speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether Galleri is an appropriate addition to your preventive health strategy.

Take Control of Your Health With Everlywell

Early detection is key to catching cancer at more treatable stages. Everlywell offers a range of at-home lab tests and virtual healthcare visits to support your wellness journey. You can also order the Galleri test through Everlywell.

References

1. Pyzocha NJ. Galleri test for the detection of cancer. Am Fam Physician. 2022;106(4):459-460. Link
2. American Cancer Society. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests. Updated April 10, 2025. Link
3. GRAIL, Inc. The Galleri test screens for multiple cancers. Link
4. Klein EA, Richards D, Cohn A, et al. Clinical validation of a targeted methylation-based MCED test. Ann Oncol. 2021;32(9):1167–1177.
5. Cleveland Clinic. The Galleri test: a new blood test for cancer screening. Link
6. National Cancer Institute. Screening tests. Link
7. McCartney M, Cohen D. New evidence casts doubt on MCED blood tests. BMJ. 2024;386:q1706.
8. GRAIL, Inc. Multi-cancer early detection screening. Link