New EU Gastric Cancer Screening Trial at Beacon Hospital

Dr Charlene Deane, Clinical Research Registrar & Specialist Registrar in Gastroenterology, Hepatology & General Internal Medicine at Beacon Hospital, was asked by Image.ie readers whether screening is available for gastric cancers. 

While a national screening programme is not currently available, the EU is running a feasibility trial, and Beacon Hospital has been selected to run the Irish arm of the study, called TOGAS. The team is currently recruiting participants aged 30–34. 

The trial involves a blood test to screen for Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria known to be a major cause of gastric cancer. Screening (and treatment where required) is provided free of charge to participants. 

Read the Image.ie Q&A: Ask the Doctor: ‘I have a family history of gastric cancers and am concerned — is screening available for this?’. 

Learn more about the trial and how to take part: TOGAS gastric cancer screening trial at Beacon Hospital.