Leading the Way in Early Detection Research
Early detection and prevention of cancer can save lives, but current tools often fall short because of suboptimal accuracy and limited accessibility.
The Fred Hutch Cancer Center aims to change that with BEACON — Biomarkers for Early Assessment, Cancer detection, and Outcome Navigation — a new initiative focused on advancing the ways in which we detect and prevent cancer.
Over the past decade, interest has surged in cancer biomarkers — biological indicators found in blood, tissue, or other samples — that can help predict cancer risk, detect cancer earlier, and guide treatment decisions.
Breakthroughs in computer-based tools that combine biological data from genetics and other molecular information, analyze tissue samples and improve imaging are revolutionizing how we use biomarkers to predict cancer risk, detect disease early and identify people who will benefit from cancer preventing therapies.
Fred Hutch is at the forefront of efforts to analyze and validate novel biomarkers being developed in NCI-sponsored research programs. We are the home of the data management centers for the Early Detection Research Network (EDRN), Liquid Biopsy Consortium (LBC), and Cancer Screening Registry Network, which have yielded promising candidates for clinically relevant biomarkers.
Fred Hutch investigators have been conducting high-profile cancer biomarker research programs that are shaping the future of cancer detection and prevention, positioning Fred Hutch as a national leader in biomarker science and innovation. BEACON creates a venue for them to interact and engage other scientists interested in biomarker science.
Fostering New Collaborations
BEACON leverages this expertise in collaboration with scientists, clinicians, statisticians, technology experts and business development partners from across the region to accelerate how we discover and develop new biomarkers. BEACON aims to foster groundbreaking research, secure sustainable funding, and ultimately bring validated biomarkers into clinical care where they can make a real difference for patients.
BEACON will support this work through regular seminars, an annual retreat and a pilot program that will fund promising new research ideas. We’re also advocating for the infrastructure needed to support this work — from biobanks and advanced lab equipment to data management and clinical trial support.
If you are interested in biomarker discovery for cancer prevention, early detection and therapy response, BEACON offers opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and contribute to a future where cancer is detected earlier and treated more effectively.
BEACON Leadership
Executive Committee
Related Efforts at Fred Hutch
