A research study investigating if a breath test might be able to detect liver cancer earlier, is being trialled at Ipswich Hospital.
The Vocal2 trial, set up by Professor George Hanna and his team at Imperial College London, compares the differences in the types, concentrations and patterns of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are produced in a person’s bloodstream and exhaled through breath.
Three different groups of people have been tested:
- Those living with liver cancer
- Those living with liver disease at higher risk of developing liver cancer
- Those with symptoms such as bloating, nausea, gas, or changes in bowel habits – that do not immediately point to a single, distinct disease – and a radiologically normal liver.
Liver cancer is not normally found early, and a cure can often be limited if diagnosed at an advanced stage.
However, over 80% of liver cancers develop in people with cirrhosis or liver disease and regular monitoring is recommended to help improve early detection.
Research nurse Aashima Bakshi with a study participant
“We are trying to identify what volatile organic compounds come from the breath of a person with a known diagnosis and see if there is a correlation or overlap with patients living with conditions such as cirrhosis,” said Dr Georgios Karagiannidis
“The study has the potential to improve earlier diagnosis and help clinicians identify patients requiring further investigation.
Clinical research nurse at ESNEFT, Aashima Bakshi said: “Research is really important as it shapes the future of healthcare – introducing new treatment and improving existing practises.”
A total of 750 people have been recruited UK-wide to participate in the study, 250 in each category, including 36 from ESNEFT.
Research nurse Aashima Bakshi with a study participant