Evaluating a blood test for early cancer detection in military veterans
Official title: Evaluation of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing in a High-Risk Military Population: The Sentinel Study
Run by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute · NCT06523868 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new blood test to see if it can help find different types of cancer early in military veterans.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1500 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 31, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | February 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06523868 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are veterans aged 45 and older with at least eight years of active-duty service who have received care at a VA facility in the past five years.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients diagnosed with invasive malignancy within the last three years or those currently undergoing treatment for cancer may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This research evaluates the effectiveness of the Galleri multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test in identifying various cancers in veterans who have served in active duty. The study compares the results of the Galleri test with standard cancer screening methods to determine its performance in a military population. Participants will undergo blood draws, complete questionnaires, and attend clinic visits over a period of up to one year. The study aims to enroll approximately 1,500 individuals and is funded by the Department of Defense.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier cancer detection in veterans, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using multi-cancer early detection tests, but this specific approach in a military population is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Active-duty or National Guard/Reserves military service for four or more years * Age ≥ 45 * Received care at a VA facility within past 5 years * Able to sign informed consent * Willingness to travel to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA, for diagnostic testing if screening test indicates possible malignancy Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals diagnosed with invasive malignancy within 3 years of enrollment (non- melanoma skin cancer is acceptable) * Individuals with evidence of symptomatic or active cancer requiring therapeutic intervention at the time of participation (hormone therapy for breast/prostate cancer is acceptable) * Individuals in the process of being evaluated for a clinical suspicion of cancer
Where it's running
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Elizabeth ODonnell, MD — Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
- Study coordinator: Elizabeth ODonnell, MD
- Email: elizabeth_odonnell@dfci.harvard.edu
- Phone: 857-215-2361
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.