A Queen’s University graduate has designed a revolutionary game that could detect some cancers. Glenn McDowell’s digital game aims to improve early diagnosis and educate the public about the symptoms of one of the world’s most deadly cancers.
The Belfast graduate has combined his passion for nursing with innovative thinking to create a digital game that raises awareness about pancreatic cancer and the importance of early detection. During his time at Queen's, Glenn created an interactive game to promote public awareness about pancreatic cancer, one of the world's most under-survived cancers due to usually late diagnosis far beyond the time the actual illness is established.
In partnership with Northern Ireland Pancreatic Cancer (NIPANC) and Focus Games, the game enables users to engage with an anatomical diagram and complete quizzes to learn about the symptoms of the disease. The purpose is to enhance early diagnosis through increased symptom awareness and encouraging help-seeking behaviour.
A study of 727 participants found a significant increase in both awareness of symptoms and the intention to seek medical advice. Since its launch, the game has been played over 5,000 times across more than 40 countries, making it a valuable tool in global health education.
Glenn's interest in nursing was driven by a strong interest in the care and well-being of others. After over a decade in the hospitality industry, Glenn went back into education and completed his BSc in Professional Nursing. He reflected on his decision to change careers thus:
“I wanted to be part of something that could make a real difference and after learning the horrifying statistics on pancreatic cancer, it soon became clear that we had the opportunity to do just that. Early diagnosis is so important with pancreatic cancer and our public health campaign using the serious game really pushed this message.”
Glenn's work did not stop with the development of the game. With support from academics at Queen's, Glenn showcased his project at the Chief Nursing Officer Conference 2023 and represented Queen's regionally. His insights about raising awareness of pancreatic cancer were also featured in the Royal College of Nursing Student Magazine, issued to more than 400,000 healthcare professionals.
Recognition for both research and outreach has seen Glenn named as one of the top 10 in the UK and a shortlisted nominee for Student Nurse of the Year (Adult) at the Student Nursing Times Awards 2024. While he did not take home the award, Glenn described it as being “hugely motivational to be among the leaders of our profession”.
Now a practicing emergency nurse at the Emergency Department at Mater Hospital, Glenn still works diligently and strives to learn while continuing deep connections with Queens. Glenn praises this successful period, stating that Dr Gary Mitchell MBE mentored him along the way, leading onto multiple of these opportunities.
"Queens have been fantastic," said Glenn. "In particular, Dr Gary Mitchell MBE who has been a constant mentor to me throughout my journey here and provided me multiple opportunities including this one and numerous other projects.”
English (United States) ·