NCT03568630 · University of Nebraska
Blood Markers of Early Pancreas Cancer
What this study is about
Identifying biomarkers of early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) could facilitate screening for individuals at higher than average risk and expedite the diagnosis in individuals with symptoms and substantially improve an individual's chance of surviving the disease.
View original scientific description
Identifying biomarkers of early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) could facilitate screening for individuals at higher than average risk and expedite the diagnosis in individuals with symptoms and substantially improve an individual's chance of surviving the disease. The investigators propose a longitudinal study of subjects at higher than average risk of PDAC in order to generate clinical data and bank serial blood specimens.
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
- Able to provide written, informed consent
- Able to attend an in-person study visit in Omaha, NE twice a year to collect blood samples
- Must also meet criteria for one specific cohort. Participants who meet criteria for more than one cohort are eligible. (The intent being that potential participants must meet the criteria for at least one cohort, but are eligible if criteria are met for more than one cohort) o New onset diabetes/high-risk pre-diabetes cohort: must meet one of the following criteria: New onset type 2 diabetes diagnosed within the past 3 years, defined as A1c ≥ 6.5%, fasting blood glucose \>126mg/dL confirmed on a subsequent day or as diagnosed by a physician High-risk pre-diabetes: A1c \>6.3% or A1c \>6.0% with fasting blood glucose \>110 or 2 hour oral glucose tolerance test between 140-200mg/dL, or taken metformin \<3 years o Pancreatic cystic neoplasm/pancreatitis cohort: must have one of the following diagnoses: Pancreatic cystic neoplasm for which resection, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or serial imaging has been recommended Chronic pancreatitis as defined by cross-sectional imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, functional testing abnormalities OR as diagnosed by a gastroenterologist o Inherited risk cohort: must meet one of the following criteria: Two or more blood relatives with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), includes 1st-3rd degree relatives (First - parent, sibling or child; Second - grandparent, aunt/uncle, niece/nephew, or half-sibling; Third - first cousin, great grand parent or great grandchild) One 1st degree relative with PDAC diagnosed before age 60; Germline mutation associated with a higher than average risk of PDAC, including but not limited to: Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndromes (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2) Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (Lynch) syndrome (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2) Familial adenomatous polyposis (APC) Familial atypical multiple melanoma and mole syndrome (CKDN2a, p16) Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (STK11) Ataxia-telangectasia (ATM) Juvenile polyposis syndromes (SMAD4, BMPR1A) Li Fraumeni (TP53) Cystic fibrosis and unaffected carriers (CFTR) Personal or family history which meets clinical criteria for a hereditary cancer syndrome and includes a relative with PDAC (as above)
Exclusion criteria
- Personal history of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
- Currently receiving treatment for a cancer diagnosis (excluding long-term hormonal therapy)
- Pre-diabetes on metformin for ≥ 3 years
Where
- Omaha, Nebraska
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 Feb 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations