NCT03538665 · University of Alabama at Birmingham
The DETECT Study: Discovery and Evaluation of Testing for Endometrial and Ovarian Cancer in Tampons
(DETECT)
What this study is about
BACKGROUND: Endometrial cancer is a common and deadly cancer for women. It is getting more common and deadly because risk factors like age and obesity are increasing. Also, this cancer is becoming more common and deadly for black women than white women. Researchers want to find better ways to take samples and test them for this cancer. They want to study this for a racially diverse population.
View original scientific description
BACKGROUND: Endometrial cancer is a common and deadly cancer for women. It is getting more common and deadly because risk factors like age and obesity are increasing. Also, this cancer is becoming more common and deadly for black women than white women. Researchers want to find better ways to take samples and test them for this cancer. They want to study this for a racially diverse population. One way to take samples might be from a tampon. If identified early, endometrial cancer can be highly curable; however, the earliest stages may be asymptomatic, and clinical symptoms are often missed. Combining sensitive molecular testing approaches with non-invasive sampling techniques may to lead to the development of novel endometrial cancer early detection approaches with the potential to overcome disparities in access to care and time to diagnosis and treatment. In contrast to endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer is typically detected at advanced stages with poor survival since symptoms manifest only late in the disease process and are very unspecific. Racial disparities in ovarian cancer incidence and mortality are also much less pronounced. Racial disparities can manifest particularly when screening, symptom appraisal and early detection, and effective treatment interventions have important roles in determining outcomes of cancers. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to see if it is possible and acceptable for individuals to have an endometrial or ovarian sample collected by using a tampon placed in the vagina. The investigators will look at DNA in these samples. DNA is the genetic information participants inherited from their parents. The investigators want to see whether the investigators can find changes in DNA and proteins related to endometrial or ovarian cancer from tampon samples. Tests on the samples from tampons will help to understand endometrial and ovarian cancer. The samples collected during this study will be used for research related to both endometrial and ovarian cancer and non-cancer conditions. ELIGIBILITY: Women at least ≥18 years undergoing clinically-indicated hysterectomy and/or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for endometrial or ovarian cancer, cancer precursors, or benign conditions. DESIGN: 1. Participants will put a tampon in their vagina at least 30 minutes before their surgery. 2. Participants will take a short survey. 3. The tampon will be collected during the surgery. 4. A small piece of tissue will be collected from the uterus +/- ovary that is removed in surgery. 5. Participants will give a blood sample. 6. Before or after surgery, participants will answer questions. These will be about their medical history and basic data such as age and race. 7. Researchers will follow participants medical records for up to 5 years after the study. Additional blood may be taken from patient if patient agrees. 8. Researchers will study the samples and tampons. They will compare how well cancer and other markers are detected between the samples.
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
- Individuals born with female sex organs (uterus, ovaries, including cis-gender female and transmasculine individuals, hereafter referred to as "women") scheduled for hysterectomy or bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy at the University of Alabama Birmingham's Division of Gynecologic Oncology or Department of Gynecology
- Age \>18 years. We have chosen this age range to include both peri- and postmenopausal women, who are at greatest risk for endometrial cancer.
- Ability of study participant to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document. Women who do not meet this criterion include potential participants who do not speak English or Spanish, or have physical, mental, or emotional problems that prevent them from comprehending the nature of the study. If the potential participant has trouble reading the document, the designated study staff person may read the document to the patient, to include the basic elements of the informed consent document, per 45 CFR §46.116 (a).
Exclusion criteria
- Women who are pregnant are excluded from gynecologic surgery and are therefore not eligible to participate.
- Individuals who were not born with female sex organs at birth (i.e., cis-gender males and transfeminine individuals) are not eligible for this study as they are not at risk for developing endometrial and ovarian cancer.
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
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 Sep 4, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations