Information about the PRIC Study

Cancer is currently the second most common cause of death in Sweden, affecting many people either directly or indirectly. Detecting a tumor early—before it has had time to grow or spread—offers better chances for effective treatment and improved survival.

The goal of the PRIC study is to develop and evaluate methods for early cancer detection using a simple blood sample collected at home from a fingertip.

New screening tests could offer major benefits

In Sweden today, there are screening programs for only a few types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. These programs have contributed to earlier detection and improved survival rates. However, for many types of cancer, there are still no effective and affordable screening tests available. Therefore, more research is needed to develop new screening methods for a wider range of cancers.

New tests for early cancer detection

To detect early signs of cancer, researchers can analyze various substances in a blood sample—so-called biomarkers. In the PRIC study, we aim to identify biomarkers that may indicate the presence of cancer before any symptoms have developed. To find the right biomarkers and develop reliable cancer detection tests, we need a large number of participants and information about their health.

Blood samples and health information needed for research

To perform research and develop new testing methods, the PRIC study needs blood samples from thousands of adults in Sweden. Participants are invited to donate a few drops of blood from a finger, using home-based test. Invitations are sent to individuals within specific age ranges and regions of Sweden.

Participants are also asked to provide brief health information, including smoking and alcohol habits, via a digital questionnaire to help assess cancer risk.

The blood sample collection is repeated annually over a three-year period to allow for analysis of samples from multiple time points for each participant. Every sample provided to the study is of great value to our research. 

The goal of the research

Our goal is for the PRIC study to contribute to the development of diagnostic tests using new biomarkers that can detect multiple types of cancer early. In this way, we hope to support the development of cost-effective cancer screening methods that can save lives.