Residents in the Merthyr Tydfil area who experience heartburn, indigestion, or acid reflux are being urged to participate in a groundbreaking research trial that uses a simple “pill-on-a-thread” test to detect early signs of oesophageal cancer. The trial, known as the BEST4 Screening Trial, is being conducted on a mobile screening unit that will be stationed at Cyfarthfa Shopping Park, Swansea Road, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1HY, from Tuesday, September 1, to Friday, September 11.
Who can take part and how it works
Men aged 55 to 79 and women aged 65 to 79 are eligible to join the trial. The mobile unit is specially equipped to bring research directly to communities across Wales, making it easier for residents to participate without travelling long distances.
The trial investigates whether the capsule sponge test can effectively screen people with heartburn for Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition associated with long-term acid reflux that increases the risk of developing oesophageal cancer. The appointment takes approximately 35 minutes and is carried out by a trained nurse.
What the test involves
Participants swallow a small capsule attached to a thread. Once in the stomach, the capsule dissolves to release a sponge, which is gently removed to collect cells from the lining of the oesophagus. These cells are then analysed for signs of Barrett’s oesophagus, offering a quick and less invasive alternative to an endoscopy.
This innovative approach could help identify individuals who may benefit from further investigation, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The test is designed to be simple and straightforward, with the entire process completed in under an hour.
Local participant shares his experience
Phil Walters, a 68-year-old Welsh resident, has already taken part in the trial. He has lived with heartburn for more than 25 years and has been on medication for the condition for a long time. Phil said: “When I heard about the trial, I wanted to get involved and support research that could help improve care for other people in the future.”
He praised the mobile unit, saying, “I think bringing research directly into communities is a great idea. We have lots of initiatives that support our communities, from recycling schemes to local services, and I think research should be seen in the same way. The BEST4 mobile unit makes it much easier for people to take part in research closer to home, and I'd encourage anyone who's invited to consider getting involved.”
How to sign up
Eligible individuals may receive a text message from NHS Wales inviting them to join the Heartburn Health programme. If you receive such a message, click the link in the message to sign up. Some people who sign up and meet the trial requirements will be randomly selected to attend an appointment on the mobile screening unit.
If you have not received a text message but are interested in taking part, you can sign up at www.HeartburnHealth.org. The trial is open to those who meet the age criteria and have a history of heartburn or acid reflux.
Research team’s perspective
Irene Debiram-Beecham, principal research nurse and BEST4 Clinical co-ordinator, said: “We're delighted to be bringing the BEST4 Screening Trial to communities across Wales. The capsule sponge test is quick and straightforward and carried out by a trained nurse. By using mobile screening units, we're making it easier for people to take part in research closer to home.”
She added: “Every person who joins the study will help us understand whether this approach could play a role in identifying people at risk of oesophageal cancer earlier in the future. If you receive an invitation, we encourage you to consider taking part and help us build the evidence needed to improve care for future generations.”
Funding and potential impact
The UK-wide study is funded by Cancer Research UK and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Researchers hope the trial will demonstrate that the capsule sponge can help detect changes in the oesophagus earlier, leading to earlier treatment, better outcomes for patients, and reduced pressure on NHS endoscopy services.
For more information, visit www.best4trial.org, email cuh.best4screening@nhs.net, or call 0808 281 4772. The mobile unit will be at Cyfarthfa Shopping Park from September 1 to 11, and residents are encouraged to take advantage of this convenient opportunity to contribute to vital cancer research.
