PROSTAGRAM – Image-based prostate cancer testing in the community
Research type
Research Study
Full title
PROSTAGRAM - Prostate Screening Trial using A Group of Radiological Approaches including MRI and ultrasound
IRAS ID
247728
Contact name
Hashim Ahmed
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The purpose of this study is to test the feasibility of offering men, in the community, a health-check for prostate cancer based on imaging. The aim is to find an imaging technique, like mammograms for breast cancer, which could be used to test for prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer mortality rates remain high, with 1-in-23 men dying from the disease (approximate 11,000 every year). For the first time, mortality rates have surpassed breast cancer. The NHS National Screening Committee has called for further research into new tests for prostate cancer.
This trial is designed to test the feasibility of using well-established imaging techniques in men from the community aged 50-69 years. It will include:
1. MRI – this uses magnetic signals to take detailed pictures of the prostate. It does not use radiation. Prostate MRI is used in men referred to hospital as it is able to identify areas of the prostate, which may contain significant cancer and allows a more precise targeted biopsy.
2. Ultrasound (US) – this uses soundwaves to measure the stiffness of the prostate. It is more widely available than MRI and could be performed in the community more readily than MRI. It can also be performed in men that cannot have an MRI due to metal implants or claustrophobia.
All men will have a PSA blood test (the standard-of-care test) as well as an MRI and US in a single visit (to reduce the burden of visits). Any suspicious areas on either imaging test will be biopsied. If men have a raised PSA blood test, they will also be advised to undergo a biopsy as that is the standard care approach. The positive test rate for each of the tests will be compared to judge whether it is feasible to carry out a subsequent larger more definitive trial.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/1338
Date of REC Opinion
29 Aug 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion