140k in cancer test trial
BLOOD CHECK MAY HELP SPOT 50 FORMS OF DISEASE
MORE than 140,000 people are taking part in the world’s largest trial of a blood test that can detect more than 50 types of cancer.
In the year since the NHS-Galleri trial began, volunteers have had a blood test at mobile clinics in locations including Tesco in Hamilton, Leicester, in May.
Participants will be invited to attend two further appointments, roughly 12 months apart.
Five community diagnostic centres (CDCs) have also opened in the East Midlands offering a range of tests and other services.
Initial research has shown the blood test could help to detect cancers that are typically difficult to identify early even before symptoms appear – such as head and neck, bowel, lung and pancreatic.
Dr Nigel Sturrock, regional medical director at NHS England – Midlands, said: “Detecting cancer early is key to improving cancer outcomes, which is why we’re tremendously supportive of the NHS-Galleri trial, making it as easy as possible for those most at risk to get vital, lifesaving tests.
“We know certain cancers are harder to detect and a late diagnosis can be devastating for patients and their families, and this trial means thousands could benefit from diagnosis even before symptoms appear.”
He said it is vital trial participants attend their follow up appointments, so researchers can understand whether the test could be used in the future as part of the NHS cancer screening programme.
Trial organisers said they have made particular efforts to achieve representation of people from minority ethnic backgrounds, who are often less likely to take part in medical research studies.
Activity included working with specific GP practices to send invitations to their ethnic minority patient lists, community group briefings, leaflet distribution in settings such as places of worship, working with community champions and targeted social media posts.
Those joining the trial were aged from 50 to 77 years old and did not have signs of cancer at the time of enrolment.
Mobile clinics will return to towns and cities from September and will follow up with volunteers.
Co-chief investigator Professor Charles Swanton, said: “While the first year of the trial may pick up cancers that have existed for some time, the second and third years provide the best opportunity to explore the expected benefits of picking up new cancers at an early stage when treatment is generally more successful.”