NCT06995898 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
The Vanguard Study: Testing a New Way to Screen for Cancer
What this study is about
The Vanguard Study is a feasibility study to explore several aspects of evaluating multi-cancer detection (MCD) tests in a future definitive randomly assigned controlled trial. An MCD test measures markers in the blood in order to screen for multiple cancers simultaneously. There is a need to understand how MCDs may work as cancer screening tools.
View original scientific description
The Vanguard Study is a feasibility study to explore several aspects of evaluating multi-cancer detection (MCD) tests in a future definitive randomized controlled trial. An MCD test measures markers in the blood in order to screen for multiple cancers simultaneously. There is a need to understand how MCDs may work as cancer screening tools. The goal of cancer screening is to reduce the burden of cancer by identifying cancers before they show symptoms or signs, when treatment is likely to be most effective. In this study, adults aged 45-75 without cancer will be randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: 2 separate MCD test groups or a control group. These two MCD tests will not be compared to each other but will be compared to cancers detected in the control group. This study will provide early information on how well MCD tests perform as cancer screening tools. It will also help researchers understand how patients and their doctors make decisions about their care when the MCD test result comes back as normal (negative) or abnormal (positive).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ages 45-75 years old
- Agree to provide blood samples for possible MCD testing at enrollment and at 1 year following enrollment
- Agree to allow collection of information from their medical records for study-related purposes
- Understand and be able to complete informed consent and participant questionnaires in English, Spanish, or Arabic
- Note: Eligibility for Spanish and Arabic languages are at the Hub's discretion
Exclusion criteria
- Solid malignant tumor or blood cancer diagnosis, with or without treatment, within the last 5 years
- Note: Persons with a history of in situ cancers (e.g., ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast, cervical cancer in situ, atypical melanocytic hyperplasia or melanoma in situ) or nonmelanoma skin cancer are eligible
- Ongoing cancer diagnostic work-up
- Ongoing participation in another study of an investigational cancer screening test or technology
- Currently breastfeeding or pregnant, or planning to become pregnant in the next year
Where
- Pleasanton, California
- Cheyenne Wells, Colorado
- Denver, Colorado
- Fort Collins, Colorado
- Greeley, Colorado
- Lafayette, Colorado
- Lone Tree, Colorado
- Loveland, Colorado
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Bethesda, Maryland
- Brownstown, Michigan
- Chesterfield, Michigan
And 22 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations