A study looking at blood and tissue samples to learn more about advanced cancer (PEACE)

The researchers aim to collect the blood and tissue samples of at least 500 people over 5 years. In order to do this, they may need more than 500 people to join the trial.

Blood samples
You have a blood sample taken when you:

• join the study
• see the doctor for follow up appointments

Where possible, you have this at the same time as your routine blood tests. You may be able to have to blood sample taken at home.

You might also have a blood sample taken after your death.

Tissue samples
The main part of this study will happen after you have died. An expert called a pathologist will collect some samples (biopsies) of your cancer. They aim to do this within 24 to 48 hours of your death. 

The sample collection takes place in the hospital mortuary. If you die outside of hospital, your body is transferred to hospital so that the samples can be taken.

The pathologist collects small samples of all areas of cancer in the body. They also collect small samples of normal tissue. These can be compared to the cancer samples. The sample might be photographed to keep a record of where in the body it was taken from. 

All the biopsy areas are sutured (stitched). Your family or friends can then arrange collection of your body for cremation or burial.

All samples
These samples are matched with information about your cancer and treatment. If you agree, the study team will also look at stored samples of your cancer. These may have been taken when you had surgery or a biopsy. 

The results of any genetic tests will not have an impact on your family. They will not be told about any results.

All blood and tissue samples are anonymised and stored in a secure place. The medical information and photographs are stored on a secure database. No one can link the study results to you.

When the study has finished, your samples are stored. These samples may be used for future research