Research Studies

SAFE-D (Surveillance of pAncreatic health aFter diabEtes Diagnosis)

Study Overview

SAFE-D is a UK-based clinical trial evaluating a new blood-based test—developed by ClearNote Health and known as the Avantect test—for early detection of pancreatic cancer in individuals newly diagnosed with type II diabetes

Why It Matters

• Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to detect early and typically has a poor prognosis.
• Individuals newly diagnosed with type II diabetes have a significantly higher risk—up to tenfold—of developing pancreatic cancer 
• Early surgical intervention dramatically improves survival chances; however, there is currently no approved screening test 

PROGRESS (“Pharmacogenetics Roll Out – Gauging Response to Service”) study within the NHS

What is PROGRESS?

• A large-scale pharmacogenomic feasibility trial launched in June 2023 in collaboration between Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and the NHS North West Genomic Medicine Service Alliance 
• Aims to test whether genetic testing—specifically for variants affecting drug metabolism—can be integrated into routine NHS primary care prescribing 

Why PROGRESS matters

• Demonstrates scalable genomic medicine in primary care at national scale.
• Paves the way for safer, more effective drug prescribing based on personal genetic data.
• Elevates pharmacogenomics to routine clinical care—treating it like a standard lab result, not a specialist test.
• Offers early wins in health outcomes, prescribing safety, and potential cost savings.

If you are eligible to be part of these research studies your GP may have a discussion with you. 

Taking part is voluntary and will not affect the care and service you receive from the practice.