Breath test for detecting gastrointestinal cancers
PAN Alimentary Cancer Exhaled Breath Analysis (PANACEA) Study
This study is testing whether a simple breath test can help find gastrointestinal cancers early in people who might have them.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 8000 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Imperial College London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London) |
| Trial ID | NCT06764641 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to validate the use of breath analysis for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with gastrointestinal cancers, including oesophageal, gastric, pancreatic, liver, and colorectal cancers. By recruiting at least 8,000 individuals with suspected cancer from 40 centers, the study will assess the effectiveness of a simple breath test in identifying these cancers early. The research will also explore the optimal implementation strategy for this test in primary care settings and evaluate its cost-effectiveness. The goal is to improve early diagnosis and ultimately enhance survival rates for patients with gastrointestinal cancers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 and older with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms who have been referred for further investigation.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of gastrointestinal surgery, other cancers within the last three years, or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to earlier detection of gastrointestinal cancers, significantly improving patient outcomes and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: While breath analysis for cancer detection is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in identifying specific volatile compounds linked to various cancers.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged ≥ 18 years old. * Participants with non-specific symptoms referred from primary care along upper and lower gastrointestinal cancer pathways for the reference test (upper/lower gastrointestinal endoscopy, CT/MRI/ultrasound ± histological/cytological confirmation). * Willing and able to provide informed written consent to take part in study. Exclusion Criteria: * Previous oesophageal, gastric, liver, pancreatic or colonic resection * History of another cancer within three years * Co-morbidities preventing breath collection * Pregnant participants * Unable or unwilling to provide informed written consent.
Where this trial is running
London
- Imperial NHS Trust — London, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Michael Fadel, BSc MBBS MRCS
- Email: m.fadel@imperial.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7594 3396
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.