Early detection of multiple cancers using blood tests

Multi-Ethnic Multi-Cancer Early Detection and Screening (MED SCREEN) Study

NIH-funded research Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-11036300

This study is looking at a new blood test that can help find different types of cancer early, especially for those that don’t have good screening options, and it’s open to adults aged 45-70 from various backgrounds in California.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11036300 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of multi-cancer detection (MCD) tests that analyze cell-free DNA from a single blood draw to identify various types of cancer, especially those lacking effective screening methods. The study aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of these tests across diverse populations and settings. Participants will be recruited from multiple medical centers in California, focusing on a wide demographic to ensure inclusivity. The research will utilize an integrated health care system to efficiently gather and analyze data from a large number of adults aged 45-70.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 45-70, particularly those from diverse ethnic backgrounds including Asian, Black, and Hispanic populations.

Not a fit: Patients under 45 years old or those with cancers that are already effectively screened may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection of multiple cancers, potentially saving lives through timely intervention.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using blood tests for cancer detection, but this specific approach is relatively novel and aims to fill existing gaps in screening methods.

Where this research is happening

Oakland, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Advanced Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.