APPLIED-LUNG: Transforming lung cancer screening
This study, called APPLIED-LUNG, is exploring a new blood test named OXcan for lung cancer. Lung cancer is a significant health concern in the UK, and while current NHS screening uses CT scans, a simpler blood test could make screening easier and more widely available. The OXcan test looks for specific proteins in the blood that might indicate lung cancer. Previous research suggests it found over 80% of early-stage lung cancers. This study will check how well the OXcan test works in people already having a CT scan for lung cancer screening. Its goal is to see if it can accurately spot lung cancer and help identify people who are at very low risk, and therefore might not need a CT scan.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Lung cancer is a serious issue in the UK. Unfortunately, many cases are found when the cancer is quite advanced, making it harder to treat. The NHS has started offering screening with special low-dose CT scans to people at higher risk of lung cancer. While these CT scans are good at finding cancer early, it takes a lot of resources to offer them to everyone who might need one, and our NHS is already very busy.
That's where this study comes in. Scientists have developed a new blood test called OXcan that looks for signs of lung cancer by checking proteins in your blood. This blood test could offer a safe, simple, and easier way to screen people. Earlier studies have shown promising results, with the OXcan test successfully finding many early-stage lung cancers.
This study wants to learn more about how well the OXcan blood test works. We will be comparing its results with the CT scans that people are already having. The main aims are to confirm how accurately the OXcan test can detect lung cancer and, importantly, see if it can reliably tell us who has a very low risk of lung cancer and may not need a CT scan. If successful, this could make lung cancer screening more efficient and reach more people in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing a new, simple blood test for lung cancer called OXcan.
- It aims to make lung cancer screening easier and more widely available.
- Participation involves giving a blood sample during your routine NHS CT scan.
- Your contribution helps improve future lung cancer screening methods for everyone.
- The study includes people having NHS lung screening in Cheshire and Merseyside.
- It could help identify people who are at very low risk of lung cancer and may not need a CT scan.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people aged 18 to 100 years old. You might be able to take part if you are already scheduled to have a low-dose CT scan as part of the NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme in the Cheshire and Merseyside area.
It's important that you can understand what the study involves and are happy to give your permission to take part. The research team will discuss everything with you beforehand.
You won't be able to take part if there's a medical reason that makes it unsafe for you to have the study procedures or samples taken, or if you decide you no longer want to participate.
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 18 and 100 years old?
- Are you scheduled for a low-dose CT scan as part of your NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme?
- Is your NHS lung screening taking place in the Cheshire and Merseyside area?
- Can you understand what the study involves and are you willing to give your permission to participate?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, it's quite simple. You'll have a blood sample taken just once. This will happen when you go for your routine CT scan for lung cancer screening. The research team will collect this blood sample at the same time.
They might also ask for other samples, like saliva, spit (sputum), or swabs from your nose or mouth. These extra samples are for future research to help improve screening for lung cancer and other diseases. There are no additional hospital visits needed for this study, and you won't need to take any special medications or have extra CT scans. The study will follow up on your health over a longer period to compare the blood test results with your CT scan findings and any future health diagnoses.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyLiverpool, England
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The main goal is to see how accurately a new blood test, called OXcan, can detect lung cancer and help identify people at very low risk, meaning they might not need a CT scan.
Do I have to do anything differently if I join the study?
No, you don't. You’ll have a single blood test taken at the same time you go for your routine CT scan for lung cancer screening. You won't have extra scans or appointments just for this study.
Will I get my blood test results from the study?
The information provided does not state that you will receive individual results from the OXcan blood test. The study is comparing these results to your CT scan and future diagnoses for research purposes.
Is the OXcan test already available to everyone?
No, the OXcan test is still being researched in studies like this one. It’s not currently available for general use by the public.
Who is paying for this research?
This study is being funded by the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) and Oxford Cancer Analytics Ltd (OXcan).
How to find out more
Ben Johnson
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.