Comparing universal and guideline-directed genetic testing for young adults with cancer
Official title: Randomized trial of universal vs. guideline-directed germline testing among young adults with cancer
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-9848961 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a broader genetic test can help young adults with cancer find inherited risks that regular tests might miss, so they can get better treatment and care tailored just for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2019 |
| Award (this year) | $4,815,109 |
| NIH project number | 1U01CA232836-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-9848961 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with cancer or are under the age of 21 may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of universal genetic testing compared to guideline-directed testing for young adults diagnosed with cancer. It aims to identify inherited genetic risks that may be overlooked by current testing guidelines, which often fail to account for the unique biology of cancers in this age group. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial with 1,421 participants, focusing on improving genetic testing rates and integrating results into electronic medical records to enhance patient care. By addressing barriers to genetic testing, the research seeks to improve treatment options and follow-up care for young adults with cancer and their families.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of genetic risks in young adults with cancer, resulting in improved treatment and preventive measures for patients and their relatives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that genetic testing can significantly impact cancer treatment and management, suggesting that this approach may lead to meaningful advancements in care for young adults.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nathanson, Katherine L. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Nathanson, Katherine L.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.