Comparing blood sugar levels in pancreatic cancer patients and healthy individuals

A Case-control Study Comparing Glycaemic Control in Pancreatic Cancer Patients Versus Age Matched Healthy Individuals Using Continuous Glucose Monitors.

Observational Lancaster University · NCT05583890

This study is trying to see how blood sugar levels in pancreatic cancer patients compare to healthy people over a week while they go about their daily lives.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorLancaster University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Lancaster, Lancashire and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05583890 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to continuously monitor blood glucose levels in pancreatic cancer patients over a 7-day period while they engage in their daily activities. The study will compare the glycaemic control of these patients, both those undergoing chemotherapy and those not, with that of age-matched healthy individuals. By utilizing continuous glucose monitors, activity trackers, food diaries, and questionnaires, the researchers hope to understand how pancreatic cancer affects glucose metabolism and the potential role of continuous monitoring in managing symptoms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-85 with a confirmed diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and a World Health Organisation performance status of 2 or below.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have planned or emergency surgeries, or have diabetes at the point of diagnosis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management of glycaemic control in pancreatic cancer patients, potentially enhancing their overall survival.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study is novel, previous studies have indicated a link between glycaemic control and outcomes in pancreatic cancer, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Pancreatic cancer patients

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18-85
* Sex: male/female
* Radiological/tissue cancer diagnosis
* World Health Organisation performance status of 2 or below
* Patients with jaundice must have jaundice relieved before participating

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy
* Planned surgery within the 7 days of wearing the monitor
* Emergency surgery
* Part of any other trial with similar interventions
* Any musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, or neurological disorder that could put them at risk during the protocol.
* World Health Organisation performance status of above 2.
* Have diabetes at the point of diagnosis.

Healthy control group

Inclusion:

* Aged 18-85
* No serious underlying health conditions
* Age matched to pancreatic cancer patients

Exclusion:

* Take any medications which may alter blood glucose concentrations or insulin/glucagon concentrations, regular paracetamol intake during the study period, corticosteroids, thyroid hormones, or any anti-diabetes medication including insulin and oral hypoglycaemics.
* Pregnant

Where this trial is running

Lancaster, Lancashire and 1 other locations

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 Pancreatic CancerGlycaemic controlContinuous glucose monitoring
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.