A new clinical trial has started to investigate whether a vaccine could help prevent cancer in people with Lynch syndrome.
Developed by researchers at the University of Oxford alongside pharmaceutical company Moderna, the vaccine will be tested to see whether it can train the immune system to recognise and destroy cells that could go on to develop into cancer.
What is Lynch syndrome?
Lynch syndrome is an inherited (genetic) condition that increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including bowel and womb cancer.
It is thought to affect around 175,000 people in the UK and is linked to around 3% of womb cancer diagnoses. Depending on the gene affected, someone with Lynch syndrome can have up to a 60% chance of developing womb cancer in their lifetime.
Many people do not know they have Lynch syndrome until they are diagnosed with cancer themselves, another family member is diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, or a pattern of cancers is identified within the family.
Lived experience helping shape research
We’re particularly pleased to see Peaches Patient Voices and Future Voices Lead, Helen White, involved in contributing to this research.
Helen, who has experienced womb cancer and lives with Lynch syndrome, has provided input to many aspects of the project, helping to ensure it reflects the needs and priorities of people affected by the condition.
Lynch syndrome testing
Research led by Peaches’ President Professor Emma Davidson changed national practice, meaning Lynch syndrome testing is now available in England through the NHS for anyone diagnosed with womb cancer.
This allows those affected to better understand their future cancer risks, access appropriate screening, and help family members make informed decisions about their own health.
What happens next?
The trial began in August 2026. Researchers at Oxford University will study how people with Lynch syndrome respond to the vaccine, check that it is safe and identify the most effective dose. A larger second phase of the trial is planned for 2027 and is expected to include additional centres across the UK.
While this research is still at an early stage, Peaches is excited to see further research into new ways to help prevent womb cancer before it develops.
Read more about the trial:
BBC | Hope for families with hereditary cancer risk
ITV News | Cancer vaccine developed for people at hight risk of disease
Would you like to use your experience to help shape womb cancer research?
If you’ve received a diagnosis of womb cancer, or cared for someone with womb cancer, you can join Peaches Patient Voices.
If you live with a high risk of womb cancer, for example if you have Lynch syndrome, or have previously been investigated for womb cancer but not diagnosed with it, take a look at Peaches Future Voices to find out how you can get involved.
