Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection Consortium
This research project, called the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection Consortium (PRECEDE), is looking for better ways to find pancreatic cancer early and prevent it. It focuses on people who have a higher chance of developing pancreatic cancer, either because it runs in their family or they have certain genetic changes. The study will collect health information and samples like blood over time (every 6-12 months). By carefully studying these samples and health records, the researchers hope to learn more about how pancreatic cancer starts and find new ways to detect it sooner. Your doctor will continue to provide your usual care throughout the study.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is focused on a type of cancer called pancreatic cancer. It's a serious condition, and finding it early can make a big difference. That's why this study, called the PRECEDE study, is so important. Its main goal is to find better ways to spot pancreatic cancer as early as possible and, hopefully, even prevent it in some cases. Scientists are particularly interested in people who might have a higher risk, such as those with a family history of pancreatic cancer or those who have specific changes in their genes that are linked to an increased risk.
To achieve this, the PRECEDE study is bringing together information from many different medical centres. They are creating a large group of people who are at higher risk. By following these individuals over time, probably for many years, and regularly collecting health information and samples like blood, the researchers hope to learn more about the very early signs of pancreatic cancer. They want to understand how it develops.
All the samples collected will be handled and stored in a very careful, standardised way. The information from your medical records will also be used to help the researchers understand how it connects with the lab results from your samples. This big picture will help scientists develop new tests or methods for early detection, which could ultimately save lives. Your participation helps build this important knowledge base, and your own medical care will continue as normal with your doctor throughout the study.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to find better ways to detect pancreatic cancer early.
- It focuses on people with a higher risk due to family history or specific genetic changes.
- Participation involves regular visits for blood tests and sharing health information.
- It is an observational study, so you won't receive new treatments.
- Your regular medical care will continue as usual.
- Helping this research could benefit future patients.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 to 90 years old, both men and women, who are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer but don't currently have it.
You might be eligible if you have a strong family history of pancreatic cancer, for example, if two or more close relatives on the same side of your family have had it. You could also be eligible if you have specific genetic changes that doctors know are linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, even if you don't have a strong family history. Some rarer genetic conditions also make people eligible.
There are different groups within the study, and the exact requirements for age and family history can vary slightly between these groups. Importantly, if you don't meet the exact age or family history requirements for the main groups but are still considered at high risk by your doctor, you might still be able to join. The best way to find out if you qualify is to talk to your doctor or the study team.
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 90 years old?
- Do you not currently have pancreatic cancer?
- Do at least two close relatives on the same side of your family have a history of pancreatic cancer?
- Do you have a known genetic change (like in BRCA1, BRCA2, or ATM genes) linked to higher pancreatic cancer risk?
- Has a doctor told you that you are at a higher risk of pancreatic cancer?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to visit your clinic usually every 6 to 12 months. During these visits, doctors will collect blood samples from you. There's a standard way they collect and process these samples to make sure all information is consistent across different study sites. These samples will be stored carefully for future research.
As part of the study, researchers will also look at your existing medical records and health information. This helps them connect your health history with the results from the samples. You won't be given any new medications or treatments as part of this study, as it's an 'observational' study – meaning doctors are observing and collecting information, not giving new treatments. Your regular doctor will continue to manage your care as they normally would after any procedures you might have.
The overall length of your participation is not specified, but these types of studies often follow participants for many years to track changes over time. Your commitment would involve these regular visits for sample collection and allowing access to your medical information for research purposes.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (60)
- Mayo Clinic ArizonaVerified postcodePhoenix, United States· Not yet recruiting
- Honor Health Research InstituteVerified postcodeScottsdale, United States· Recruiting
- Providence Health and ServicesVerified postcodeBurbank, United States· Recruiting
- City of HopeVerified postcodeDuarte, United States· Recruiting
- UC San Diego Moores Cancer CenterVerified postcodeLa Jolla, United States· Recruiting
- Cedars-Sinai Medical CenterVerified postcodeLos Angeles, United States· Recruiting
- UCLA HealthVerified postcodeLos Angeles, United States· Recruiting
- HoagVerified postcodeNewport Beach, United States· Recruiting
- UC Irvine HealthVerified postcodeOrange, United States· Recruiting
- UC DavisVerified postcodeSacramento, United States· Recruiting
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)Verified postcodeSan Francisco, United States· Recruiting
- Yale UniversityVerified postcodeNew Haven, United States· Recruiting
Common questions
What is pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is a disease where cells in the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach, grow out of control. It can be hard to spot early.
What does 'early detection' mean?
Early detection means finding a disease like cancer at its very first stages, often before symptoms appear, when it is usually easier to treat.
Will this study give me treatment?
No, this is an 'observational' study. You won't receive new treatments or medicines through the study. Your current medical care will continue as normal.
What is a 'genetic change'?
A genetic change, or 'variant', is a difference in your DNA that can sometimes increase your risk for certain health conditions, like some cancers.
How often would I need to visit?
You would typically need to visit your clinic every 6 to 12 months for sample collection and health check-ups related to the study.
How to find out more
Naveen Fawas, BS
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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