Despite their advantages, there are some limitations to using saliva samples for cancer detection:
1. Variability in Biomarkers: The concentration of biomarkers in saliva can vary depending on various factors, such as hydration and time of day. 2. Sensitivity and Specificity: Saliva-based tests may not always be as sensitive or specific as traditional diagnostic methods. 3. Limited Research: More extensive clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of saliva samples for detecting certain types of cancer.
