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A sponge you swallow could detect esophageal cancer before it spreads

NCT ID NCT05028725

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 23, 2026 · Last updated Jul 24, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests a new way to spot esophageal cancer early using a swallowable sponge called EsophaCap, which collects cells from the esophagus. A lab test then looks for DNA changes linked to cancer. The study enrolls adults with or suspected of having esophageal cancer, as well as healthy controls, to see how accurate the method is. If it works, it could lead to a simple, low-cost screening tool for high-risk areas.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
a swallowable sponge (EsophaCap) and a DNA methylation biomarker test (EsoCAN assay)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could offer a simple, non-invasive screening method to catch esophageal cancer early, potentially saving lives in regions where the disease is common.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage diagnostic study, not a treatment trial. The test may not be accurate enough in larger populations, and false positives or negatives could limit its usefulness.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

esophageal squamous cell carcinoma esophagus carcinoma in situ

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ESOPHAGEAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA ESOPHAGEAL SQUAMOUS DYSPLASIA

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)

    RECRUITING

    Dar es Salaam, Mloganzila, Tanzania

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)

    RECRUITING

    Dar es Salaam, Upganda, Tanzania

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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