Improving functionality of PACT-UK & creating a national imaging biobank
Help shape a study
The project
Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to diagnose and assess because hospitals describe scans in different ways. This makes it harder to compare results, harder to carry out research, and slows down care improvements.
This study led by Dr Ganesh Radhakrishna and Dr Raneem Albazzaz aims to test and improve the nationally standardised reporting tool, called PACT-UK, which helps radiologists describe diagnostic scans in a clear, consistent way.
At the same time, the team will create a secure national imaging biobank using routine scans. This biobank will support the development of future research, including AI technologies that may help diagnose and monitor pancreatic cancer earlier and treatment planning
What are they going to do?
Radiologists will use the PACT-UK template when reporting CT scans for people who may have pancreatic cancer. For patients joining now (prospective), the team will ask for consent during their usual appointment (with remote options being explored).
For patients treated in the past (retrospective), where contact isn’t possible or appropriate, they’ll use their information under special approval (CAG).
All data will be coded so personal details are removed and replaced with a study code (pseudonymised) before leaving the hospital and transferred securely to an NHS-approved system to check reporting format and build an imaging biobank for future research.
Why is this research important?
Pancreatic cancer is hard to diagnose, often diagnosed late and hospitals often report scans differently. This can cause delays and uncertainty in care. By using a single national reporting tool (PACT-UK), the team aim to make scan reports clearer and more consistent, helping doctors make faster, better treatment decisions.
They will also build a national imaging biobank to support future research, including tools like artificial intelligence to improve early diagnosis, spot tiny changes/signs and monitor treatment. Over time, this could significantly improve the prognosis, long-term survival and experiences for pancreatic cancer patients and family.
How to get involved
The team would like individuals with lived experience of pancreatic cancer to:
Undertake a document review: The team would like you to review a project summary, this involves reading the summary and answering some questions on it. This is completed anonymously and electronically. If you are interested in taking part please email the Research Team (research@pancreaticcancer.org.uk) quoting the involvement reference ‘PACT-UK document review’.
Join a focus group and/or a steering committee: The team are also looking for individuals to give feedback on their project via a focus group and throughout the project via a steering committee. If you are interested in joining the focus group or steering committee or would like more information, please email Mona Khoo (mona.khoo@nhs.net) quoting the involvement reference ‘RIN PACT-UK involvement’.
No scientific background or prior experience is needed to take part in this opportunity.
