Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Early Detection of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) Using a Panel of Biomarkers

This research aims to find an easier and more accurate way to detect pancreatic cancer and other pancreatic conditions early. Currently, spotting these diseases can be difficult, but finding them earlier often means treatments can work better. The study involves collecting urine and blood samples from two groups of people: those who might have pancreatic problems because they are experiencing symptoms, and those who are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer but don't have symptoms yet. By testing these samples, scientists hope to identify specific markers that can indicate the presence of pancreatic disease. They will compare these test results with other medical information, like scans, to create a new way of diagnosing these conditions much sooner. This research is vital for improving how we detect and manage pancreatic diseases in the UK.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

Queen Mary University of London

Enrolment target

3,500

Start

01 Jan 2020

Estimated completion

31 Aug 2026

Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

What is this study about?

Pancreatic cancer can be very difficult to diagnose early because symptoms often don't appear until the disease has progressed. This clinical trial is focused on finding new ways to detect pancreatic conditions, particularly pancreatic cancer, much sooner. Early detection is incredibly important because it generally gives people a better chance of successful treatment.

The researchers are investigating whether certain substances, called 'biomarkers', found in blood and urine samples can act as early warning signs. Think of biomarkers like clues in a detective story – the scientists are looking for specific clues that indicate a pancreatic problem. They are particularly interested in combining these biomarker results with a commonly used blood test (CA19-9) to see if this combination provides a more accurate picture.

To do this, they are collecting samples from two main groups of volunteers. One group includes people who are experiencing symptoms that could be linked to pancreatic diseases, such as unexplained tummy pain or new diabetes. The other group consists of people who are at a higher risk of pancreatic cancer, even though they don't have symptoms yet. By comparing the samples from these different groups, the researchers hope to develop a reliable test that could one day be used to help doctors diagnose pancreatic cancer earlier and more effectively.

Key takeaways

This study aims to find new ways to detect pancreatic cancer early.
It involves collecting urine and blood samples for analysis.
Researchers are looking for specific 'biomarkers' in these samples.
Participation could help improve future diagnosis of pancreatic conditions.
There are no direct personal medical benefits or new treatments involved.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adult volunteers aged 18 or over. You need to be willing and able to understand the study and provide your consent to take part.

If you are experiencing symptoms that might suggest a pancreatic problem, you could be eligible for the study. These symptoms can include things like ongoing diarrhoea, back pain, tummy aches, feeling sick, being sick, constipation, or recently developing diabetes without an obvious cause.

However, you wouldn't be able to join this study if you've had treatment for any type of cancer, except for basal cell skin cancer, within the last five years. This includes treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or newer biological or immunotherapy treatments. There's also a specific group of people at higher risk of pancreatic cancer who are identified through an existing registry called EUROPAC; if you're part of that, you might also be eligible.

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 able and willing to understand and agree to take part?
Are you experiencing new tummy pain, back pain, unexplained sickness, diarrhoea, constipation, or new diabetes?
Have you NOT had treatment for any cancer (except basal cell skin cancer) in the last 5 years?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would primarily be asked to provide urine and blood samples. These samples would then be analysed in the laboratory to look for specific markers that could indicate pancreatic disease. The research team would also compare the results of these tests with other medical information you may have, such as your scan results or details from any tissue samples taken (where available). The study doesn't involve taking any new medication or having any experimental procedures. The exact number of visits or the total duration of your participation would depend on whether you are symptom-free or experiencing symptoms; this would be fully explained to you before you agree to take part.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help develop better diagnostic tools for pancreatic conditions in the future, benefiting many people. However, there are no direct benefits to you as an individual from participating, as the results of your tests will not be used to guide your personal medical care. The risks are generally low, mainly involving the minor discomfort and very small chance of bruising or infection from giving blood samples. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (4)

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

EUROPAC study, University of Liverpool
Verified postcode
Liverpool, United Kingdom
ADEPTS study, University College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom
Imperial College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom
Royal London Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a disease where cells in the pancreas (a gland 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 pancreatic cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms become severe, which can make treatment more effective.

What are 'biomarkers'?

Biomarkers are tiny substances in the body, like those found in blood or urine, that can show if a disease is present or developing.

Will I get my test results?

Your individual test results from this study won't be given back to you or used for your personal medical care. The results are used for research purposes only.

Do I have to take new medicines as part of this study?

No, this study does not involve taking any new medications. It focuses on collecting and analysing urine and blood samples.