Proving It in the Real World
CASCADE-LUNG is a prospective clinical study validating DELFI’s AI-driven approach to lung cancer screening in thousands of real-world patients. Using whole-genome sequencing to analyze cell-free DNA fragmentation patterns from a simple blood draw, the study aims to demonstrate sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value in the population most in need of screening.
The Science Behind Improved Cancer Detection
DELFI’s AI-driven computational platform analyzes genome-wide patterns of cell-free DNA fragmentation from a simple blood draw, using machine learning to detect cancer signals that conventional approaches miss. First published in Nature, our technology examines the whole genome rather than looking for individual mutations, giving researchers and clinicians a broader, more sensitive view of cancer biology.
Screening Starts with a Simple Blood Draw
FirstLook™ Lung is a blood-based lung cancer screening test designed and proven for large-scale health system deployment, with EHR integration, provider support, and established clinical workflows already in place. Designed for adults eligible for lung cancer screening under USPSTF guidelines, it uses AI and whole-genome sequencing to help determine the likelihood of detecting lung cancer through low-dose CT. With 99.8% negative predictive value, FirstLook gives providers and patients a convenient, noninvasive way to take the first step.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is DELFI Diagnostics?
DELFI Diagnostics is a cancer detection company that uses AI and whole-genome sequencing to analyze DNA fragmentation patterns in blood, capturing signals that conventional liquid biopsy approaches often miss. Its platform supports both early cancer screening and drug development research, from biomarker discovery to treatment monitoring.
What is fragmentomics?
Fragmentomics is the study of cell-free DNA fragment patterns in blood. Cancer cells package DNA abnormally, creating distinctive patterns when the cells die and release DNA into the bloodstream.
What is FirstLook Lung?
FirstLook Lung is a blood-based laboratory-developed test that uses AI and whole genome sequencing to help identify individuals who should be referred to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). It is intended for people eligible for lung cancer screening under USPSTF guidelines. FirstLook Lung is for adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, and are eligible for USPSTF guideline-recommended lung cancer screening. It is available through select health systems and healthcare providers.
What is the clinical performance of FirstLook Lung?
FirstLook Lung has a Negative Predictive Value of 99.8%, so 998 out of 1000 people with a Not Elevated result will not have lung cancer detected on LDCT. For those with an Elevated result, the likelihood of finding lung cancer on LDCT is 5.2 times higher, and the Number Needed to Screen drops from 143 to 79.
The FirstLook Lung test is a laboratory-developed test. This test was developed, and its performance characteristics were determined by DELFI Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The laboratory is regulated under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) as qualified to perform high-complexity clinical tests. The test is used for clinical purposes. It should not be regarded as investigational or for research.