
About The Sentinel Study

Why Join the SENTINEL Study?
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Join a Trusted Partner
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) is nationally recognized for leadership in cancer prevention, early detection, and research innovation.
The SENTINEL Study is led by a skilled research team at DFCI specializing in Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED).
Support from a dedicated infrastructure for coordinated care:​
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Quality Care - The clinical pathway is safe and secure from blood test to physician-delivered results and follow-up.
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Accessible - Convenient access at Quest Diagnostics locations and/or mobile phlebotomy for easy participation.
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Oversight - by Dana-Farber's Early Detection and Interception Centers.
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DOD Support - Backed by the Department of Defense, strengthening data quality through a strong synthetic control group.
Why Focus on Veterans?
Veterans face elevated cancer risk due to unique service-related exposures and stress:
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Military service increases cancer risk by at least 20% compared to the general population.
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High-risk exposures may include asbestos, burn pit emissions, and perfluorochemicals.
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Over 56,000 veterans are expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, many with cancers that currently lack routine screening.
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We'd like to ensure our Veterans receive the highest quality screening and healthcare protocols.
The SENTINEL Study is focused on veterans who:
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Are over 45 years old.
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Served at least 4 years in active duty, Reserves, or National Guard.
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Received VA care within the past five years.
Why we are offering the Galleri Test and MCED Screening?
The Galleri® test is an investigational liquid biopsy that:​
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Screens for signals from over 50 types of cancer with one blood draw.
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Complements routine cancer screening.
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Helps identify cancers that otherwise lack effective early detection.
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Identifies likely cancer types if a signal is detected, guiding diagnostic follow-up.
How This Study Helps Advance Future Care
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Up to 1,500 eligible veterans will participate in SENTINEL.
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Participants with a positive test receive physician-led communication and coordinated diagnostics at Dana-Farber.
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Participants with negative tests continue to be monitored and supported for up to one year.
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Findings will inform future cancer screening standards for veterans and high-risk groups.
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Joining SENTINEL is not just about your health—it's about contributing to a future where veterans benefit from earlier, more effective cancer detection and care.
We're Asking For Volunteers
who will help change the future for tomorrow's veterans.