Exploring the genetic links between congenital anomalies and cancer in children

Genetic Overlap Between Anomalies and Cancer in Kids in the Children's Oncology Group: The COG GOBACK Study

Observational Children's Oncology Group · NCT05071859

This study is trying to find out if there are specific genetic markers that explain why some children with birth defects also get cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages0 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Oncology Group Research network
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05071859 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the genetic features associated with children who have both congenital anomalies and cancer. By utilizing whole genome sequencing and detailed phenotyping, the study seeks to identify specific genetic markers that may explain the increased cancer risk in these children. Data will be collected from birth defects and cancer registries across four states, focusing on children diagnosed with cancer before the age of 25. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms linking congenital anomalies and cancer susceptibility.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children diagnosed with cancer at 25 years of age or younger who also have one or more congenital anomalies.

Not a fit: Patients with a self-reported genetic syndrome are not expected to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and potential prevention strategies for childhood cancers associated with congenital anomalies.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies linking congenital anomalies and cancer, this approach of using genomic sequencing to explore these associations is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* The patient must have been diagnosed with cancer at ≤25 years of age and have been diagnosed with one or more congenital anomalies reported through the APEC14B1 registry intake data. All types of non-syndromic birth defects and all types of cancers are eligible, regardless of patient vital status.

The patient must be enrolled on APEC14B1 with consent to future contact and registered with COG by a North American member institution. Note: (history of) treatment on a COG therapeutic trial is not required.

Language: English, French, or Spanish speaking.

The patient may participate regardless of the availability of biological parent(s).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a self-reported genetic syndrome as identified in the APEC14B1 Registry are not eligible.

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

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 Congenital AnomalyPediatric 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.