CanSense-CRC: early detection of colorectal cancer

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**Aim**The aim of our research project is to develop a blood test to detect the earliest stages of colorectal (bowel) cancer. Detecting cancer early allows it to be treated more simply and effectively, making it more likely to be curable.The blood test could help GPs refer patients with bowel symptoms to hospitals more effectively. The test would allow a faster diagnosis of cancer to allow treatment to start sooner. The test can also be used to help prioritise patients for check colonoscopies after treatment of bowel cancer and removal of bowel polyps.**Background**Bowel cancer is a leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. Early detection can cure the cancer but as symptoms of bowel cancer are vague it is difficult to diagnose early. Many symptomatic patients are referred for a costly and unpleasant colonoscopy. Most colonoscopies prove to be normal and could be avoided. The large number of referrals delays those who do in fact have underlying cancer being seen. There is a real need for faster and less invasive detection methods.Our test uses lasers to detect cancer activity in the blood. A computer program analyses the signal to say if cancer is likely or not. Early results indicate that the blood test is highly accurate at detecting bowel cancer and the polyps that can turn cancerous.**Methods**This project will develop the testing device and the software program to be ready for NHS use. We will study the staff who will be using the device (doctors, those who take the blood sample and laboratory staff) to improve its overall design. This will reduce any risks of its use to make it as safe as possible. We will also see if the test can save costs.The project has 2 workstreams:1\. To test and improve the safety of the device through working with those who will use it.2\. Conduct an economic cost/benefit analysis of the product compared to current tests**Patient/Public Involvement**We have involved patients from the start of our project - confirming that the need for an acceptable and accessible cancer blood test is at the heart of our development. We will work with patients and the public to design, deliver and disseminate our project.**Dissemination**We will share our results through government, academic, NHS and PPI partners, social media, publications and news releases to help achieve NHS adoption for patient benefit.