The new blood test can detect over 50 types of cancer – often before symptoms emerge
Next Friday (December 17) marks the last day people can volunteer for the world’s largest trial of a ground breaking new cancer screening test in Elephant and Castle before the Christmas holidays.
More than 1,000 people have already enrolled into the trial for Galleri, which can detect more than 50 types of cancer, often before symptoms appear.
Now anyone who age 50-77 who hasn’t had a cancer diagnosis or treatment in the last three years can request to join the trial if they are registered at a GP in Elephant and Castle or at a practice elsewhere in the boroughs of Southwark, Lambeth and Lewisham.
Local people who have already received a letter from the NHS inviting them to participate in the trial are being urged to book their appointment before Friday, December 17, to avoid missing out.
Appointments are available until December 21, and take place at the mobile clinic that has been operating on the Old Kent Road for two weeks.
Dr Kate Haire, Joint Clinical Chair at South East London Cancer Alliance, said: “It’s fantastic that so many south east Londoners have seized the opportunity to be part of this revolutionary trial, supporting the NHS to detect and fight cancer earlier.”
Dr Vin Diwakar, Medical Director for the NHS in London, added: “We all fear cancer – and early diagnosis even before symptoms even appear gives us the best chance of survival.
“By taking part in this trial, residents in Southwark will be at the forefront of developing a test that has the potential to save lives from cancer in England and around the world.”
All participants will be invited back after 12 months, and again at two years, to give further blood samples. Stringent infection prevention control measures are followed at all mobile clinics to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The booking line, 0800 030 9245, is open 8am-7pm from Monday to Saturday.
Residents can also enter their GP practice name at www.nhs-galleri.org/ to check if their practice is in a participating area.
Thousands in Elephant and Castle to be invited to mobile clinic that can detect cancer
https://www.southwarknews.co.uk/news/last-chance-to-join-ground-breaking-cancer-screening-trial-in-elephant-and-castle/
