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About The Sentinel Study

A shot of the United States flag flying proudly outside the contemporary glass buildings of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The image highlights the partnership between world-class medical research and the veteran community, emphasizing the SENTINEL Study's mission of early cancer detection for those who served

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:​

  • Quality Care - The clinical pathway is safe and secure from blood test to physician-delivered results and follow-up.

  • Accessible - Convenient access at Quest Diagnostics locations and/or mobile phlebotomy for easy participation.

  • Oversight - by Dana-Farber's Early Detection and Interception Centers.

  • 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:

  • Military service increases cancer risk by at least 20% compared to the general population.

  • High-risk exposures may include asbestos, burn pit emissions, and perfluorochemicals.

  • 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:

  • Are over 45 years old.

  • Served at least 4 years in active duty, Reserves, or National Guard.

  • 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:​

  • Screens for signals from over 50 types of cancer with one blood draw.

  • Complements routine cancer screening.

  • Helps identify cancers that otherwise lack effective early detection.

  • Identifies likely cancer types if a signal is detected, guiding diagnostic follow-up.

How This Study Helps Advance Future Care

  • Up to 1,500 eligible veterans will participate in SENTINEL.

  • Participants with a positive test receive physician-led communication and coordinated diagnostics at Dana-Farber.

  • Participants with negative tests continue to be monitored and supported for up to one year.

  • 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.

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