An Early Detection and Prevention Study for People with an Increased Risk of Cancer (InAdvance)

About the Study

This study is a biobanking study, meaning that we collect and store DNA samples, such as blood, as well as survey and medical information from participants to help researchers better understand cancer risk and early detection. Researchers will study genetic, medical and lifestyle information over time to learn how cancer develops and how it may be detected earlier or prevented. The ultimate goal is to identify new markers of cancer in order to predict and prevent it in the first place. 

What the Study Involves

The InAdvance Study includes 3 main things:

1. Once yearly blood draw collection of five 10 mL tubes (2-4 tablespoons) and one optional urine sample. We will always try to schedule this blood draw when you are coming into Dana-Farber for your routine clinical appointments. If you don’t come into Dana-Farber regularly or are not currently a patient, we can also offer remote collection options. 
2. Survey information, including questions related to your personal medical history, your family history, and overall health and well-being questions.
3. Access to your medical record to allow us to link relevant, de-identified data back to the survey information and samples.

It’s important for you to know that all research is voluntary. This study does not impact your clinical care whatsoever, and it may or may not directly benefit you. Rather, we hope that your involvement will help provide more information to contribute to cancer research, with the goal of developing strategies that can help improve cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Learn more

People who may have an increased risk of cancer, including:

• People with a personal or family history of cancer or possible inherited cancer risk (includes those who have not had genetic testing or had a negative result)
• People with lifestyle or environmental risk factors (such as smoking, certain infections, or exposures)
• Cancer survivors who may have an increased risk due to prior treatments
• People with precancerous conditions or abnormal findings that may develop into cancer, including breast, colon, lung, skin, gynecologic, or prostate pre-cancers  
• Family members of participants and healthy volunteers

This study is also open to family members of participants or healthy individuals interested in participating.

The study is open to all individuals and does not have specific exclusion criteria. Eligibility will be reviewed by the study team.