BC Cancer Agency researchers are seeking women with a history of normal Pap smears to participate in the second phase of a clinical trial testing an innovative screening technology for cervical cancer.

In March 2002, the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA) introduced the "optical wand," a thin probe that shines light onto the cervix, and measures the amount of light that comes back. This returning light is analyzed by a computer, which identifies cancerous or pre-cancerous abnormalities in the cervix. To participate in the first stage of the clinical trial, women needed to have had an abnormal Pap test result, and then be referred to the study. In this new stage of the research, coordinators are seeking women with a history of normal Pap tests who are interested in additional screening for cervical cancer, as well as a thorough exam of the cervix.

"The benefits of being involved in this study are that if we detect abnormalities in the screen, it means the volunteer doesn't need to have a follow-up colposcopy and biopsy," explains Dr. Calum MacAulay, head of Cancer Imaging at the BCCA and a study researcher. "We will perform all of the screening at once, something that wouldn't occur during a regular Pap test. It reduces the stress involved in waiting for results and treatment."

The study coordinators are seeking 400 volunteers for the two-year research project. Once this phase is finished, the next stage will be a randomized "see and treat" phase, where women with abnormalities are screened, diagnosed, and treated all in one visit.

The project has several aims:

• To examine the biologic origins of precancerous changes in the cervix
• To determine the accuracy of the optical wand in detecting and diagnosing cancer
• To test the optical wand as it would be used in the health care system
• To assess how acceptable patients and care providers find the optical wand
• To determine what impact the technology could have on society and costs

If this technology is adopted in Canada, explains MacAulay, it has benefits not only for women, but for the health care system, by reducing the costs associated with repeated visits for screening and treatment.

The benefits of this research have the potential to extend far beyond the borders of B.C. Cervical cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death for women world-wide. While mortality rates rates for women in B.C. are excellent, approximately 190,000 women in developing nations die from the disease every year. Of all the cervical cancers world-wide, 80 percent occur in developing countries.

The BC Cancer Agency is a leader in the field of cervical screening: it was one of the first organizations in the world to develop a comprehensive program through a central lab. The Agency is hoping that its new technology will prove successful and have the potential to help reduce the mortality rates from cervical cancer around the world.

"For developing regions without the infrastructure of labs and technologists, an area midwife or nurse practioner can easily use this portable system to screen women. With this technology, we can hopefully decrease the high mortality rates," explains Nick MacKinnon, Instrumentation Core Leader at the BC Cancer Agency.

Over the course of this study, researchers plan to refine the technology into a format that can be easily transported and set up in remote locations, or restrictive conditions. Ideally, the screening system will be no larger than a desktop telephone.

The BC Cancer Agency, in partnership with MD Anderson in Texas, has received an $10 million U.S. renewal grant from the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute to move into the screening phase of this study. Health professionals involved in this study include oncologists, pathologists, cell biologists, epidemiologists, behavioral scientists and biomedical engineers.

Interested women can request an information pamphlet from the BCCA by calling 604.707.5977.

The BC Cancer Agency, a part of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Research Centre conducts research into the causes and cures for cancer.

Nicole Adams
Public Relations Officer
BC Cancer Agency
(604) 877-6272