Abbott has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Exact Sciences, a move that would strengthen cancer diagnostics and broaden access to innovative screening and treatment solutions worldwide. The deal, valued at about $21 billion, aims to enhance early cancer detection and expand tools for patients and healthcare providers across the diagnostic landscape.
Robert B. Ford, chair and chief executive officer of Abbott, described Exact Sciences as a unique innovator with a strong brand and customer-focused execution that complements Abbott’s mission to tackle major health challenges. He stated that integrating Exact Sciences’ people and know-how will enable Abbott to address the global cancer burden more effectively, spanning prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The transaction is expected to expand access to life-changing diagnostics and help more people detect and manage cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. To achieve this expanded care, the two companies will leverage Exact Sciences’ comprehensive product offerings to support patients and clinicians before, during, and after cancer diagnosis. Exact Sciences’ portfolio includes products designed to enhance early detection and targeted diagnostic insights.
“Exact Sciences’ innovation, its strong brand and customer-focused execution are unrivaled in the cancer diagnostics space, and its presence and strengths are complementary to our own. We’re excited to bring Exact Sciences’ people and know-how into Abbott so that together, we can take on the global challenge of cancer,”
Under the definitive agreement, Exact Sciences shareholders will receive cash valued at $105 per share, placing the transaction's equity value around $21 billion and enterprise value near $23 billion, including net debt assumed by Abbott. The boards of both companies have unanimously approved the deal, with closing anticipated in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary shareholder consent.
Abbott’s acquisition is anticipated to broaden its cancer diagnostics footprint by incorporating Exact Sciences’ offerings, including colorectal cancer screening and multi-cancer detection capabilities, into Abbott’s global commercial and clinical infrastructure. The combination is expected to accelerate innovation in cancer diagnostics and extend access to impactful screening and diagnostic solutions.
The strategic move comes as the oncology diagnostics market continues to grow, driven by demand for earlier and more accurate cancer detection methods and advances in precision oncology.