Watch our video on the MODERNISED study

What is the MODERNISED study?

The aim of the MODERNISED study is to develop new blood tests to help early identification of different types of cancer. Early diagnosis of cancer is key for better survival and often allows patients more treatment options.

In this study we want to test the performance of a new blood test called ‘Enlighten’, which measures the body’s immune response to early cancer development.

Who can take part?

About 1350 people will take part in this study: 1000 participants with a cancer diagnosis, 250 participants without a cancer diagnosis but showing signs or symptoms of cancer, and 100 participants who are fit and well (healthy volunteers). We need samples from all groups, to test whether the blood tests can accurately diagnose cancer.

Where is the study running?

The study is recruiting participants from a small number of NHS hospitals in England. Visit our information on Hospitals involved to see which NHS hospitals are taking part.

What will I need to do to take part?

During a visit to the hospital, a research team member will discuss the study with you and answer any questions you have. If you consent to take part, we will ask some questions about your health and collect some background information about you.

A trained member of the research team will take a small sample of blood (4 mL, just less than a teaspoon) to be used in the study.

If you have a cancer diagnosis, or have symptoms of cancer but have not been diagnosed:

Taking part in the study will add no more than 30 minutes to an existing hospital appointment. We will collect information on the results of tests and appointments you have, plus any diagnosis of your symptoms and how that is treated for up to 2 years after taking part. Your blood sample will need to be taken before you start any possible cancer treatment.

To find out if you can be referred to take part at your local hospital, email modernised@soton.ac.uk and we can put you in touch with your local study team.

If you are a healthy volunteer:

You will be invited to attend one visit at a participating hospital at a date and time that suits you. We will collect information on your health, such as appointments or tests you may have for up to 2 years after taking part.

If your health status changes during the study, we will continue to analyse your data but the results from your blood test may be grouped with different participants for study analysis.

To take part as a healthy volunteer, please contact the study team at modernised@soton.ac.uk.

What are the risks and benefits of participating?

Benefits:

Participating in this study may help improve care for people by detecting cancer early when there are often more treatment options available. You will not find out the results of the test.

Possible disadvantages:

You will need to give a blood sample. Although this process is generally safe you may experience some minor but short-lasting discomfort or bruising.

How can I get more information?

For further information, including how we keep your data safe and what your samples may be used for, download the full participant information sheet below. Please make sure you select the option that best describes you.

Healthy volunteers

Read the Participant Information Sheet (PIS)

People with cancer symptoms

Read the Participant Information Sheet (PIS)

People with a cancer Diagnosis

Read the Participant Information Sheet (PIS)

The MODERNISED study is funded by the NIHR and the Office for Life Sciences. It is Sponsored by the University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, and coordinated by Southampton Clinical Trials Unit.