Identifying blood markers for early cancer detection

MEDECA - Markers in Early Detection of Cancer

Danderyd Hospital · NCT06355245

This study is testing a new blood test to see if it can help find hidden cancers earlier in patients with serious but unclear symptoms.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDanderyd Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT06355245 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The MEDECA study aims to improve early cancer diagnosis by identifying a multi-analyte blood test that can detect hidden cancers in patients with serious but nonspecific symptoms. It will involve 1500 patients referred to Danderyd Hospital's Diagnostic Center, where blood samples will be collected before a thorough cancer diagnostic work-up, including advanced imaging techniques. The study seeks to map occult cancer through biochemical analyses and collaboration with leading international scientists.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 presenting with serious but nonspecific symptoms suggestive of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit serious symptoms or have a known primary tumor may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection of cancer, significantly improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using blood tests for early cancer detection, but this specific approach is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

\- Age above 18 years

One or more of the following symptoms/clinical signs:

* General malaise
* Severe tiredness
* Unintentional weight loss
* Fever of unknown cause
* Uncharacteristic pain for \>4 weeks
* Abnormal laboratory tests (e.g., anemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), calcium etc.)
* Diffuse pain without explanation
* Marked increase in drug usage
* Increasing health service seeking behavior
* Radiological findings suggestive of metastasis without known primary tumor or suspicion

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unwillingness to participate in the study
* Age below 18 years

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cancer, Diagnosis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.