Thousands of people in the Greater Manchester area have been selected to take part in the world’s largest trial of a revolutionary new blood test that can detect more than 50 types of cancer before symptoms appear.
People aged between 50 and 77, who haven’t had a cancer diagnosis before, can go to a mobile clinic and give a small blood sample, they will then be invited back again after 12 months and again 12 months after that to provide further blood samples.
The test works by finding chemical changes in fragments of genetic code that leak from tumours in the bloodstream.
Dr David Levy, Regional Medical Director for NHS England North West said: “Most of us are now aware of the benefits of finding cancer earlier when it is easier to treat. [The test] has already been taken up by other parts of the North West and by taking part in this trial, the people of Tameside and Glossop will be at the forefront of receiving a test that has the potential to save lives from cancer in the UK and around the world.”
“Registering for the trial is easy – just look out for the letter which will show you how to book an appointment online or over the phone.”
The mobile clinic has already visited Oldham, Salford, Manchester, Trafford, Rochdale, Wigan, Bury and Bolton, with its latest destination being Tameside and Glossop.
Initial results of the trial are expected by 2023, with a further possible roll out to another one million people in 2024 and 2025 if the trial is successful.
Dr Lisa Gutteridge, NHS Tameside and Glossop Clinical Commissioning Group Governing Body GP member for Macmillan cancer said: “The [test] test is ground-breaking, as it can find cancers before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis means patients can get started on treatment whilst their cancer is at a really early stage, improving their chance of survival.
“We’re really pleased that Tameside and Glossop have been included in this trial, and I would implore to anyone that receives an invitation to book your appointment. It’s not only great for you, but also gives you chance to be part of some research which has the potential to save many lives in Tameside and Glossop, across the UK and around the world too.”
The trial is being run by The Cancer Research UK and King’s College London Cancer Prevention Unit and is the latest measure by the NHS in working towards their goal of finding three-quarters of cancers at an early stage by 2028, per its Long Term Plan commitment.
More information on the trial is available here.
