RecruitingNot ApplicableInterventional

SEARCH: Screening for early detection of second lung cancer after radiotherapy or chemotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma

The SEARCH study is looking into whether providing a low-dose CT (LDCT) lung scan could effectively find lung cancer early in people who have previously been treated for Hodgkin lymphoma. People who have had Hodgkin lymphoma treatment, like radiotherapy or chemotherapy, have a higher chance of getting lung cancer later on. Currently, there isn't a specific screening programme for them, meaning lung cancer is often found at a later stage when it's harder to treat. This study will help the NHS understand if this type of scan is practical, acceptable, and useful for this group. It also aims to learn how to best identify those at highest risk, how people feel about being invited, and ensure everyone has fair access to screening. The goal is to improve early detection so treatment can be more successful.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

University of Manchester

Enrolment target

4,400

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

01 May 2027

Lung cancer risk among survivors of classical Hodgkin lymphoma

What is this study about?

The SEARCH study focuses on a very important health concern for people who have had Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that starts in white blood cells. If you've been treated for Hodgkin lymphoma in the past, especially with radiotherapy or chemotherapy, your risk of developing lung cancer later in life can be higher. This is because those powerful treatments, while necessary for your Hodgkin lymphoma, can sometimes affect other parts of your body over the years.

At the moment, there isn't a national screening programme specifically for Hodgkin lymphoma survivors to regularly check for lung cancer. This often means that if lung cancer does develop, it might not be found until it's more advanced, making treatment more challenging. The SEARCH study wants to change this. It's investigating whether using a special type of X-ray scan, called a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan, could be a good way to find lung cancer earlier in those at higher risk.

Essentially, the study aims to answer a few key questions for the NHS: Is it practical to offer these scans? Do people feel comfortable having them? And, most importantly, are they effective at finding lung cancer early enough to make a real difference? The results of this study could help decide if low-dose CT scans should become a regular part of NHS care for people who've had Hodgkin lymphoma, potentially saving lives by catching lung cancer at a treatable stage.

Key takeaways

The study aims to find lung cancer early in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors.
It uses a low-dose CT (LDCT) lung scan for detection.
Participation helps the NHS evaluate future screening programmes.
Open to adults 45-74 with a smoking history and previous Hodgkin lymphoma.
Potential benefits include earlier detection; risks include radiation exposure and anxiety.
Study starts in 2026 and runs for 2-3 years, with a main contact at The University of Manchester.

Who may be eligible?

The study is looking for adults aged between 45 and 74 years old who have previously been treated for a type of cancer called classical Hodgkin lymphoma. To join, you must have finished your Hodgkin lymphoma treatment at least three years ago.

You also need to have a history of smoking, either currently or in the past, and be well enough to be able to have lung cancer treatment if anything concerning is found during the scans. It's important that you are able to give your full understanding and permission to take part in the study.

You wouldn't be able to join if you've never smoked, if you can't give your consent, or if you had a different type of lymphoma. Also, if you've had lung cancer in the last two years, or if you're not medically fit for potential lung cancer treatment, or if you can't have an LDCT scan (for instance, if you weigh over a certain amount or can't lie flat), then this study might not be right for you.

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.

Did you have classical Hodgkin lymphoma in the past?
Did your treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma finish at least 3 years ago?
Are you between 45 and 74 years old?
Have you ever smoked (even if you've stopped now)?
Are you generally well enough to have potential lung cancer treatment if needed?
Can you give your full permission to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you are invited and decide to take part, the first step is an invitation, usually by text message, because your details match the study's requirements. Then, a nurse will call you to check you’re eligible and explain more about the study.

Next, you'll have a ‘Lung Health Check’, which is usually a phone or video call. During this, you'll give your formal consent to join, answer some questions about your health, and your personal risk of lung cancer will be calculated. If you are found to be at higher risk, you’ll be offered a low-dose CT scan at an NHS hospital or in a mobile scanning unit. This scan involves lying still for a short time while a special X-ray machine takes pictures of your lungs.

After your scan, your results will be sent to you by post or phone, just like with other NHS test results. You'll also be asked to fill in some short questionnaires at the start, after 3 months, and again after 6 months, to share your experiences. Some people might also be asked if they'd like to do an interview or provide a saliva sample, but these are optional. The whole process, including any follow-up, is expected to take up to 2-3 years, although your active involvement might be much shorter.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in the SEARCH study has potential benefits, such as the possibility of finding lung cancer early through the low-dose CT scan, which means treatment could be more successful. You might also feel more informed about your lung health, and your participation will directly help the NHS decide how best to screen other Hodgkin lymphoma survivors. However, there are also some potential risks. The scan involves a very small amount of radiation, similar to a few months of natural background radiation. The scan might also pick up things that need further investigation, which could lead to more tests and appointments. Some people might also feel worried or anxious while waiting for or receiving their results. The study team uses national safety guidelines and provides clear information to minimise these risks, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time.

Locations (8)

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

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Manchester, England
University Hospital of North Midlands NHS Trust
City only
Stoke-on -trent, England
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Doncaster, England
Royal Eye Infirmary - University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
City only
Plymouth, England
University Hospital Southampton
City only
Southampton, England
NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Care Board
City only
Cambridge, England
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Harrogate, England
The Royal Marsden Hospital Pathology Services
City only
London, England

Common questions

What is Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of your body's immune system.

What is a low-dose CT scan?

It's a special type of X-ray that takes detailed pictures of your lungs. 'Low-dose' means it uses less radiation than a standard CT scan.

Why are people who had Hodgkin lymphoma at higher risk of lung cancer?

Treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma can sometimes increase the risk of developing other cancers, including lung cancer, many years later.

Will I get my scan results?

Yes, your scan results will be sent to you by post or phone using standard NHS procedures.

Can I join if I've never smoked?

No, this study is specifically for people with a history of smoking, as this is a key factor in lung cancer risk for Hodgkin lymphoma survivors.

How to find out more

Tania Seale

tania.seale@manchester.ac.uk +44 7879779259 Official trial record

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