Surveillance of Pancreatic Health After Diabetes Diagnosis
The SAFE-D study aims to see if a new blood test called Avantect can help detect pancreatic cancer at an early stage. Pancreatic cancer is often found late, when it's harder to treat. This study focuses on people aged 50-84 who have recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, as they have a higher risk. You would attend three study visits over 12 months, providing a blood sample and completing an anxiety questionnaire each time. Finding pancreatic cancer early could significantly improve treatment success. The study will compare results from those whose samples are tested immediately with those whose samples are stored for later.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Pancreatic cancer is a very serious disease, and unfortunately, it's often found when it has already spread, making it much harder to treat successfully. If we can find it earlier, treatments like surgery become a real option, which can make a big difference to someone's health and future.
Currently, there isn't a widely used test to screen for pancreatic cancer. This study is testing a new blood test called Avantect. This test looks for specific clues in your blood that might suggest pancreatic cancer is present, even before you feel unwell. The main goal is to see if Avantect can help doctors find pancreatic cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage, especially in people who are at higher risk.
Why focus on people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes? Research shows that people over 50 who have recently developed type 2 diabetes have a much higher chance of having pancreatic cancer than the general public. By studying this specific group, the researchers hope to find the most effective way to use the Avantect test to catch cancer early.
Key takeaways
- New blood test (Avantect) is being studied for early pancreatic cancer detection.
- Aims to help people over 50 newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, who have a higher risk.
- Involves 3 clinic visits over 12 months for blood samples and questionnaires.
- Early detection of pancreatic cancer can lead to better treatment options.
- Participation includes a 3-year remote follow-up through health registries.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people who are between 50 and 84 years old. You must have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six months. It's important that you're willing to give blood samples and that you're able to have an MRI or CT scan if needed.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've already had type 1 or type 2 diabetes for more than six months, or if you've ever had pancreatic cancer or certain other cancers in the last three years. Also, if you're currently being investigated for pancreatic problems, have had major surgery recently, or are pregnant, you wouldn't be able to take part.
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 between 50 and 84 years old?
- Have you been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last 6 months?
- Are you willing to provide blood samples?
- Are you able to have an MRI or CT scan if needed?
- Have you NOT had pancreatic cancer or certain other cancers in the last 3 years?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would visit a clinic three times over a period of 12 months. At each visit, you would give a blood sample, and you would also fill out a short questionnaire about how you're feeling. There are no new medicines involved in this study. For three years after you join, the study team will remotely check cancer and death records to see if any participants developed cancer during that time.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (31)
- Ashfields Primary Care CentreVerified postcodeSandbach, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS TrustVerified postcodeMaidstone, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Balance Street Health CentreVerified postcodeUttoxeter, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Forest Medical GroupVerified postcodeLeicester, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- South Leicestershire Medical GroupVerified postcodeKibworth Beauchamp, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Peel Croft SurgeryVerified postcodeBurton-on-Trent, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Kingswinford Medical PracticeVerified postcodeKingswinford, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Park Medical CentreVerified postcodeLeek, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Trinity Court SurgeryVerified postcodeStratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Brockwood Medical PracticeVerified postcodeBrockham, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Integrated Care Partnership/ The Old Cottage HospitalVerified postcodeEpsom, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- Warlingham Green Medical PracticeVerified postcodeWarlingham, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the Avantect test?
It's a new blood test that looks for tiny clues in your blood that might show the early signs of pancreatic cancer.
Why is this study focusing on people with type 2 diabetes?
People over 50 who have recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of pancreatic cancer, making them a key group to study for early detection.
Will I get my test results straight away?
If you are in the group whose samples are tested immediately and a potential issue is found, you will be informed and offered follow-up scans.
How many times will I need to visit the clinic?
You will need to attend three visits over a total of 12 months.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and your medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
SAFE-D Trial Manager
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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