Collecting specimens and data for early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer

Northwestern Ovarian Cancer Early Detection & Prevention Program: A Specimen and Data Study

Observational Northwestern University · NCT00005095

This study is trying to find better ways to detect and prevent ovarian cancer early by collecting blood and tissue samples from people at high risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment6000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexFemale
SponsorNorthwestern University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT00005095 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to improve strategies for the early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer, particularly among high-risk populations. It involves the collection of specimens and data to develop sensitive tumor markers and identify new prevention approaches. Participants will undergo periodic specimen collection, including blood and tissue samples, and may complete questionnaires to assess psychological functioning. The study focuses on understanding and managing ovarian cancer and related gynecological malignancies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include women at increased risk for ovarian cancer due to family history or genetic predisposition.

Not a fit: Patients without a family history of ovarian cancer or those not deemed at increased risk by a genetic counselor may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection methods and prevention strategies for ovarian cancer, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in developing early detection methods for ovarian cancer, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS:

* Meets one of the following criteria:

  * Considered to be at increased risk for developing ovarian cancer, as defined by one of the following:

    * Has at least one first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer
    * Has at least two first or second degree relatives diagnosed before age 50 with either ovarian, primary peritoneal, fallopian tube, and/or pancreatic cancer who have tested positive for hereditary cancer syndrome that includes an increased risk of gynecologic cancer (e.g., BRCA1/2 or Lynch Syndrome)or have increased risk as deemed by a certified genetic counselor
    * A personal or family history of a hereditary cancer syndrome that includes an increased risk of gynecologic cancer
    * Increased risk as deemed by a certified genetic counselor
  * Undergoing surgery for a gynecologic condition, including any of the following:

    * Diagnosis of a reproductive cancer
    * Benign gynecological condition (e.g., uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or follicular or corpus luteum ovarian cysts)
    * Highly suspicious adnexal mass
    * Risk-reducing prophylactic oophorectomy

PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS:

Age

* Between the ages of 18 and 80

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cervical CancerEndometrial CancerFallopian Tube CancerHereditary Breast/Ovarian CancerOvarian CancerSarcomaUterine LeiomyomataVaginal Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.