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The EARLYSCAN Cluster

EARLYSCAN (Early Screening & Hereditary Cancer Awareness Network), a new European collaborative cluster, has been launched to strengthen prevention and early detection strategies for heritable cancers. The cluster brings together three Horizon Europe–funded projects: DISARM, PREDI-LYNCH, and SHIELD.

EARLYSCAN operates under the Mission on Cancer priority area “Prevention & early detection – early detection of heritable cancers” and aims to maximise the impact of EU investment by aligning efforts, reducing duplication, and accelerating translation into practice.

Why EARLYSCAN matters

People with inherited genetic risk represent a major opportunity for earlier cancer detection and improved outcomes. However, effective early detection depends on more than a single test or technology. It requires a complete and coordinated pathway, including:

  • Identifying individuals at increased genetic risk
  • Recruiting and supporting them in appropriate surveillance programmes
  • Longitudinal testing and monitoring
  • Returning results and ensuring structured clinical follow-up

EARLYSCAN addresses this full pathway by coordinating research across countries, cancer types, and health systems, helping ensure that evidence is comparable, scalable, and ready for future clinical implementation and real-world use.

DISARM

DISARM is an EU-funded Cancer Mission project focused on improving hereditary ovarian cancer (OC) risk assessment and early detection across Europe. It tackles two key gaps: limited access to personalised, accurate risk assessment, and the absence of reliable, accessible tools for early OC detection.

The project will validate several affordable, minimally invasive diagnostic technologies and deploy intelligent digital assets to empower healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers. By combining clinical studies, digital innovation, and participatory stakeholder engagement, DISARM aims to support the adoption of its solutions into routine care across multiple countries.

Learn more about DISARM here: https://disarm-project.eu/

Predi-Lynch

PREDI-LYNCH targets early cancer detection in people with Lynch syndrome, the most common hereditary cancer predisposition.

Using non-invasive liquid biopsy technologies combined with artificial intelligence, the project aims to detect cancers at an early stage across several Lynch-associated cancer types. PREDI-LYNCH places strong emphasis on ethical, social, and healthcare system considerations.

Learn more about PREDI-LYNCH here: https://predi-lynch.eu/

Shield

SHIELD focuses on early detection and surveillance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in individuals with familial or genetic risk.

The project is validating a novel blood‑based multiplex immunoassay in a multi‑centre European study and works closely with clinicians, screening authorities and patient organisations to support future integration into healthcare systems.

Learn more about SHIELD here: https://missionshield.eu/