Developing affordable tests for early cancer detection
Official title: Clinical Core
Funded at Rice University · NIH-10928784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on easy and affordable cancer tests that people can use at home, especially in areas where healthcare is limited, so that families and local health workers can help catch cancer early and make sure everyone has access to the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 13, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $337,946 |
| NIH project number | 5U54EB034652-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928784 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in low- and middle-income countries or underserved areas who are at risk for cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already receiving adequate cancer screening and care in high-income countries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating and validating affordable point-of-care (POC) tests for cancer screening and early detection, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and underserved areas. It aims to empower local healthcare providers and community health workers, as well as patients and families, to conduct screenings in their own homes. The project emphasizes the importance of adapting these technologies to diverse populations and addressing the unique challenges faced in different environments. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the research seeks to ensure that these innovations are effective and accessible to those who need them most.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early cancer detection rates in underserved populations, leading to better treatment outcomes and reduced mortality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing point-of-care technologies for various health conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach to cancer detection.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richards-Kortum, Rebecca R. — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Richards-Kortum, Rebecca R.
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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.