CompletedPhase IIInterventional

Evaluation of a novel bowel cancer blood test to prioritise the colonoscopy waiting list

The study aims to evaluate a new, simple blood test that uses a technology called Raman spectroscopy. This test could help decide who needs a colonoscopy most urgently, especially for people who have had bowel cancer or polyps removed and whose follow-up appointments were delayed. Currently, there's no reliable blood test to know if polyps or cancer have returned. The study will compare blood test results with colonoscopy findings to see how accurate the new test is. If successful, this blood test could mean that people at higher risk get their colonoscopy appointments sooner, while those at lower risk might wait a little longer, potentially reducing anxiety and improving how waiting lists are managed.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Phase II

Sponsor

Swansea Bay University Health Board

Enrolment target

200

Start

07 Dec 2023

Estimated completion

27 Jun 2024

Colorectal cancer, high risk polyp and genetic colorectal cancer predispositions

What is this study about?

Many people who have had bowel cancer or polyps removed need regular follow-up colonoscopies to check if the cancer or polyps have come back. Unfortunately, many of these appointments have been delayed, causing worry and anxiety. Currently, the only way to know for sure if something has returned is to perform the colonoscopy.

This study is testing a new type of blood test that uses a clever technology called Raman spectroscopy. This technology looks at patterns in your blood that might show if polyps or cancer are present. Previous research has already shown promising results, and this study aims to see how well this blood test works in a real-life hospital setting to help manage colonoscopy waiting lists.

The main idea is to use this blood test to help doctors decide who needs a colonoscopy most urgently. If the test shows a high chance of a problem, those individuals could be prioritised for an earlier appointment. If the test suggests a very low chance, they might be able to wait a little longer. This could make the waiting list more efficient and ensure that those who need it most get their colonoscopy quickly.

Key takeaways

New blood test for bowel cancer follow-up.
Aims to prioritise colonoscopy waiting lists.
Looks for signs of polyps or cancer returning.
Participation involves a single blood test.
Potential to improve future patient care.
Small risks associated with blood draw.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for both men and women, aged 18 or older.

You would be eligible to take part if you are currently waiting for a follow-up colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy because you've previously had bowel cancer or polyps, and your appointment is now overdue.

However, you wouldn't be able to join the study if you've been diagnosed with a different type of cancer (like blood cancer or other spreading cancers) in the last three years, or if you have inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) and are having colonoscopies for that. You also need to be willing to give your written consent to participate and be prepared to have a colonoscopy.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you waiting for an overdue follow-up colonoscopy?
Have you previously had bowel cancer or polyps removed?
Are you willing to have a colonoscopy?
Have you been free from other spreading cancers for at least 3 years?
Do you not have inflammatory bowel disease for which you're being monitored?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be giving a blood sample. You will be told the result of this special blood test. Your test results will then be compared with a computer model that has learned from blood samples of other patients whose colonoscopy outcomes were already known. Based on your blood test result, if you show a high chance of having a polyp or cancer, you would be given a higher priority for your colonoscopy appointment. If your blood test shows a low chance, your appointment might be scheduled with a lower urgency. The entire process of the study for each participant relates to one blood test and your pre-scheduled colonoscopy.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might help improve how patients needing colonoscopies are managed in the future, ensuring those at highest risk get seen sooner. However, it's important to remember that there are no direct health benefits to you personally from taking part. The main activity is having a blood sample taken, which carries small risks such as bruising, minor pain, bleeding, or, very rarely, fainting or infection at the site where the blood is drawn. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Swansea Bay Cds
Unverified
Port Talbot, Wales

Common questions

What is Raman spectroscopy?

It's a clever way of looking at a blood sample to find tiny clues that might show if there are polyps or cancer present, helping to identify who might be at higher risk.

Will I get my colonoscopy sooner if I join the study?

The study aims to use the blood test results to help prioritise colonoscopies. If your test indicates a higher likelihood of a problem, you might get an earlier appointment.

Will this blood test replace my colonoscopy?

No, this blood test is designed to help prioritise colonoscopies, not replace them. You will still have your colonoscopy as planned or reprioritised.

Is the blood test safe?

Yes, having a blood sample taken is a very common and generally safe procedure. There are small, usual risks like minor bruising or discomfort.

Who is running this study?

This study is being run from Swansea Bay University Health Board and is funded by the Moondance Cancer Initiative.

How to find out more

Rhodri Stacey

rhodri.stacey@wales.nhs.uk +44 (0)1792 205666 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.