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Winestone LE, Wilkes JJ, Puccetti D, Keegan THM, Henk HJ, McPheeters J, Kahn JM, Ginsberg J, Wong S, Timberline S, Malogolowkin M, Pollock BH, Alvarez E. Time to diagnosis among young patients with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30997. [PMID: 38864147 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with diagnostic delays in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancers are poorly understood. METHODS Using the Optum Labs Data Warehouse's de-identified claims data for commercial health plan enrollees, we identified children (0-14 years) and adolescents/young adults (AYAs) (15-39 years) diagnosed with one of 10 common cancers from 2001 to 2017, who were continuously enrolled for 6 months preceding diagnosis. Time to diagnosis was calculated as days between first medical encounter with possible cancer symptoms and cancer diagnosis date. Median times from first symptom to diagnosis were compared using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Multivariable unconditional logistic regression identified sociodemographic factors associated with longer time (>3 months) to cancer diagnosis (from symptom onset). RESULTS Of 47,296 patients, 87% presented prior to diagnosis with symptoms. Patients with central nervous system (CNS) tumors were most likely to present with symptoms (93%), whereas patients with cervical cancer were least likely (70%). Symptoms varied by malignancy. Of patients with symptoms, thyroid (105 days [range: 50-154]) and cervical (104 days [range: 41-151]) cancer had the longest median time to diagnosis. Females and patients at either end of the age spectrum were more likely to experience diagnosis delays of more than 3 months. CONCLUSION In a commercially insured population, time to diagnosis varies by cancer type, age, and sex. Further work is needed to understand the patient, provider, and health system-level factors contributing to time from symptom onset to diagnosis, specifically in the very young children and the young adult patient population going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena E Winestone
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and BMT, University of California, San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California, USA
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer J Wilkes
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Diane Puccetti
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Theresa H M Keegan
- Center for Oncology Hematology Outcomes Research and Training (COHORT), Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey McPheeters
- Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Eden Prairie, Optum, Minnesota, USA
| | - Justine M Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jill Ginsberg
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samantha Wong
- School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Sage Timberline
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Marcio Malogolowkin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Brad H Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Elysia Alvarez
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, California, USA
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Al-Nassan A, Almanaseer T, Malkawi S, Al-Bitar F, Jibrin D, El-Qurnah O, Bataineh S, Kamal M, Abu-Shanab M, Sultan I. Understanding Diagnosis Delay in Children With Cancer: Evidence From a Single Institution in Jordan. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2024:00043426-990000000-00476. [PMID: 39141785 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with diagnosis delay in children with cancer who are treated at a single institution, which caters to most children with cancer in Jordan. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study with a retrospective chart review of selected patients who were diagnosed from August 2018 to December 2021. Data on patient and household characteristics, medical history, and diagnostic delay were collected through structured interviews. Univariable and multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of delay. RESULTS The study included a cohort of 202 patient-caregiver pairs, with a median total delay from symptom onset to treatment initiation of 47 days (interquartile range [IQR], 21 to 114 d). Notably, 86% of families pursued medical consultation within a month of recognizing symptoms. A regression model revealed CNS tumors as a significant independent predictor of increased total delay (P=0.002), with affected patients experiencing a median delay markedly longer than those with other cancer types. In addition, older patient age predicted longer total delay (P=0.025). Symptomatology played a pivotal role in the timeliness of the diagnosis; specifically, visible symptoms such as pallor, bruises, and jaundice were associated with more expedient medical attention, with significantly shorter delays (P values: 0.011, <0.001, and 0.045, respectively). Furthermore, our investigation disclosed a notable variance in symptom prevalence across different cancer categories, elucidating the complex relationship between clinical presentation and diagnostic timelines. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of the diagnosis of CNS tumors, patient age, and symptoms in predicting diagnosis delay in pediatric oncology patients. These findings can inform interventions to reduce delays in diagnosis and improve outcomes for these patients. These insights are crucial for developing targeted educational programs aimed at healthcare professionals and families to accelerate the recognition and referral of pediatric cancer cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saja Malkawi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Dayana Jibrin
- Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Cancer Center
| | | | - Shaima Bataineh
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maen Kamal
- Department of Pediatrics, Hurley Medical Center, MI
| | | | - Iyad Sultan
- Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Cancer Center
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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Rafiq M, de Boer J, Mar J, Desai J, Bae S, Gyorki DE, Di Bella C, Lyratzopoulos G, Lewin JH, Emery J. Clinical activity in general practice before sarcoma diagnosis: an Australian cohort study. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:e508-e516. [PMID: 38527792 PMCID: PMC11221489 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2023.0610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased time to diagnosis in sarcoma is associated with poor prognosis and patient outcomes. Research is needed to identify whether opportunities to expedite the diagnosis of sarcoma in general practice exist. AIM To examine pre-diagnostic GP clinical activity before sarcoma diagnosis. DESIGN AND SETTING An Australian retrospective cohort study using hospital registry data (Australian Comprehensive Cancer Outcomes and Research Database [ACCORD]) linked to two primary care datasets (Patron and MedicineInsight). METHOD The frequency of general practice healthcare utilisation events (general practice attendances, prescriptions, blood test, and imaging requests) were compared in 377 patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) and 64 patients with bone sarcoma (BS) in the year pre-diagnosis. Poisson regression models were used to calculate monthly incidence rate ratios (IRR) for the 24 months pre-diagnosis and estimate inflection points for when healthcare use started to increase from baseline. RESULTS In the 6 months pre-diagnosis, patients with sarcoma had a median of 3-4 general practice attendances, around one-third had a GP imaging request (33% [n = 21] BS and 36% [n = 134] STS), and approximately one in five had multiple imaging requests (19% [n = 12] BS and 21% [n = 80] STS). GP imaging requests progressively increased up to eight-fold from 6 months before sarcoma diagnosis (IRR 8.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.92 to 18.15, P<0.001) and general practice attendances increased from 3 months pre-diagnosis. CONCLUSION Patients with sarcoma have increased GP clinical activity from 6 months pre-diagnosis, indicating a diagnostic window where potential opportunities exist for earlier diagnosis. Interventions to help identify patients and promote appropriate use of imaging and direct specialist centre referrals could improve earlier diagnosis and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena Rafiq
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia, and Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care (IECH), UCL, London, UK
| | - Jasper de Boer
- Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC), VCCC Alliance, and Australian and New Zealand Children's Haematology/Oncology Group (ANZCHOG), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jasmine Mar
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZSA), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jayesh Desai
- VCCC Alliance, and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susie Bae
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David E Gyorki
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Jeremy H Lewin
- VCCC Alliance, and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and ANZSA, and Victorian AYA Cancer Service, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Saatci D, Oke J, Harnden A, Hippisley-Cox J. Identifying early symptoms associated with a diagnosis of childhood, adolescent and young adult cancers: a population-based nested case-control study. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02786-5. [PMID: 39004646 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02786-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood, teenage and young adult (CTYA, 0-24 years) cancers are rare and diverse, making timely diagnosis challenging. We aim to explore symptoms and symptom combinations associated with a subsequent cancer diagnosis and to establish their timeframe. METHODS Using the QResearch Database, we carried out a matched nested case-control study. Associations between pre-specified symptoms encountered in primary care and a subsequent diagnosis of any cancer were explored using conditional logistic regression. Median diagnostic intervals were used to split symptoms into "late" and "early" timeframes to identify relevant early symptoms. RESULTS 3186 cases and 50,576 controls were identified from a cohort of 3,424,771 CTYA. We identified 12 novel associations, of which hemiparesis [OR 90.9 (95%CI 24.7-335.1), PPV = 1.6%], testicular swelling [OR 186.7 (95%CI 86.1-404.8), PPV = 2.4%] and organomegaly [OR 221.6 (95%CI 28.3-1735.9), PPV = 5.4%] had significant positive predictive values (PPV). Limb pain, a known marker of serious illness in children, was a recurrent early symptom across cancer subtypes. Similar clinical presentations were observed across childhood and TYA cancers. DISCUSSION Using the largest cohort to date, we provide novel information on the time-varying predictive utility of symptoms in the diagnosis of CTYA cancers. Our findings will help to raise clinical and public awareness of symptoms, stratify those at higher-risk and ultimately aid earlier diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Saatci
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - J Oke
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - A Harnden
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J Hippisley-Cox
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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5
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Saatci D, Zhu C, Harnden A, Hippisley-Cox J. Presentation of B-cell lymphoma in childhood and adolescence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:718. [PMID: 38862882 PMCID: PMC11167855 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12372-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma, one of the commonest cancers seen in childhood and adolescence, is challenging. There is a crucial need to identify and delineate the prevalence of associated symptoms in order to improve early diagnosis. AIMS To identify clinical presentations associated with childhood and adolescent B-cell lymphomas and estimate symptom prevalence. METHODS A systematic review of observational studies and meta-analysis of proportions was carried out. Medline and EMBASE were systematically searched, with no language restrictions, from inception to 1st August 2022. Observational studies with at least 10 participants, exploring clinical presentations of any childhood and adolescent lymphoma, were selected. Proportions from each study were inputted to determine the weighted average (pooled) proportion, through random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Studies reported on symptoms, signs and presentation sites at diagnosis of 12,207 children and adolescents up to the age of 20. Hodgkin's lymphoma most frequently presented with adenopathy in the head-and-neck region (79% [95% CI 58%-91%]), whilst non-Hodgkin's lymphoma presented abdominally (55% [95% CI 43%-68%]). Symptoms associated with lymphoma included cervical lymphadenopathy (48% [95% CI 20%-77%]), peripheral lymphadenopathy (51% [95% CI 37%-66%]), B-symptoms (40% [95% CI 34%-44%]), fever (43% [95% CI 34%-54%]), abdominal mass (46% [95% CI 29%-64%]), weight loss (53% [95% CI 39%-66%]), head-and-neck mass (21% [95% CI 6%-47%]), organomegaly (29% [95% CI 23%-37%]), night sweats (19% [95% CI 10%-32%]), abdominal pain (28% [95% CI 15%-47%]), bone pain (17% [95% CI 10%-28%]) and abnormal neurology (11% [95% CI 3%-28%]). CONCLUSION This systematic review and meta-analysis of proportions provides insight into the heterogeneous clinical presentations of B-cell lymphoma in childhood and adolescence and provides estimates of symptom prevalence. This information is likely to increase public and clinical awareness of lymphoma presentations and aid earlier diagnosis. This review further highlights the lack of studies exploring childhood and adolescent lymphoma presentations in primary care, where patients are likely to present at the earliest stages of their disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defne Saatci
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK.
| | - C Zhu
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - A Harnden
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - J Hippisley-Cox
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
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Kirchhoff AC, Waters AR, Chevrier A, Wolfson JA. Access to Care for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer in the United States: State of the Literature. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:642-652. [PMID: 37939320 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.01027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Access to care remains a persistent challenge for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. We review key findings in the science to date. (1) Location of care matters. There is survival benefit for AYAs treated either at a pediatric center or site with special status (eg, Children's Oncology Group, National Cancer Institute [NCI]-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center). (2) Socioeconomic status and insurance require further investigation. Medicaid expansion has had a moderate effect on AYA outcomes. The dependent care expansion benefit has come largely from improvements in coverage for younger populations whose parents have insurance, while some subgroups likely still face insurance gaps. (3) Clinical trial enrollment remains poor, but access may be improving. Numerous barriers and facilitators of clinical trial enrollment include those that are system level and patient level. NCI has established several initiatives over the past decade to improve enrollment, and newer collaboratives have recently brought together multidisciplinary US teams to increase clinical trial enrollment. (4) Effective AYA programs require provider and system flexibility and program reflection. With flexibility comes a need for metrics to assess program effectiveness in the context of the program model. Centers treating AYAs with cancer could submit a subset of metrics (appropriate to their program and/or services) to maintain their status; persistence would require an entity with staying power committed to overseeing the metrics and the system. Substantial clinical and biological advances are anticipated over the next 20 years that will benefit all patients with cancer. In parallel, it is crucial to prioritize research regarding access to health care and cancer care delivery; only with equitable access to care for AYAs can they, too, benefit from these advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Kirchhoff
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Austin R Waters
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Amy Chevrier
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Julie A Wolfson
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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Andreasi V, Partelli S, Muffatti F, Battistella A, Fermi F, Balzano G, Crippa S, Tamburrino D, Pecorelli N, De Cobelli F, Arcidiacono PG, Falconi M. Diagnostic work-up and surgical management of insulinoma: A retrospective analysis from a tertiary referral center. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13353. [PMID: 37915303 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Insulinoma is a multifaceted disease that poses several challenges in terms of clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, and surgical management. The aim of this study was to describe diagnostic work-up, surgical management, and postoperative outcomes of patients with insulinoma. All consecutive patients who underwent surgery for insulinoma at San Raffaele Hospital (Milan, Italy) between January 2008 and January 2022 were included. Overall, 98 patients were considered. The median delay between presenting symptoms and insulinoma diagnosis was 10 months (IQR, 4-21). Insulinoma diagnosis was made at our Institution in 45 patients, 20 of whom referred within 6 months from symptoms onset. In this subgroup, the median interval between symptoms presentation and insulinoma diagnosis was 4 months (IQR, 2-6), as compared to 14 months (IQR, 10-26) in patients (n = 25) who referred to our institution after 6 months from symptoms onset (p < .001). The insulinoma was localized preoperatively in all the cases. All patients underwent ≥1 high-quality imaging: computed tomography (CT: n = 87, sensitivity 84%), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI: n = 55, sensitivity 85%) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS: n = 79, sensitivity 100%). MRI identified the tumor in eight patients with negative CT. EUS localized the insulinoma in three patients with negative CT and negative MRI. Parenchyma-sparing resections were performed in 41 patients. Contact with major vessels, lesion close to Wirsung duct and suspect of malignancy were the main reasons to perform a formal resection. An early referral to high-volume centers is important for reducing diagnostic delay in patients with insulinoma. The diagnostic work-up of insulinoma frequently requires several imaging modalities to be performed, with EUS being the most sensitive one. Parenchyma-sparing surgery for insulinoma should be performed whenever technically and oncologically feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Andreasi
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Partelli
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Muffatti
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Battistella
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Fermi
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Balzano
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Crippa
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Tamburrino
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Pecorelli
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco De Cobelli
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Department of Radiology & Center for Experimental Imaging, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Giorgio Arcidiacono
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Pancreato-Biliary Endoscopy and Endosonography Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Falconi
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, San Raffaele Hospital Neuroendocrine Tumor Group (ENETS Center of Excellence), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Burgers VWG, Reuvers MJP, Taphoorn MJB, Kok M, de Langen AJ, van den Bent MJ, Frissen SAMM, Harthoorn NCGL, Dickhout A, Husson O, van der Graaf WTA. A qualitative study on the healthcare experiences of adolescents and young adults (AYA) with an uncertain or poor cancer prognosis. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:721. [PMID: 38008874 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08149-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment advancements have improved life expectancy for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with an uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis (UPCP) and change clinical practice. This improved survival requires a different approach and specific expertise to meet the needs of this group. The aim of this study is to explore the health care experiences of AYAs with a UPCP. METHODS We conducted a multicenter qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and elements of the grounded theory by Corbin and Strauss. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 46 AYAs with a UPCP. They were on average 33.4 years old (age range 23-44), and most of them were woman (63%). Additionally, five AYAs with a UPCP participated as AYA research partners in two focus groups. They were on average 31.8 years old and four of them were woman. AYAs with a UPCP reported four pillars for a satisfied healthcare experience: (1) trust, (2) tailored communication, (3) holistic empathic open attitude, and (4) care being offered (pro-)actively. They reported both optimal and suboptimal experiences about distrust based on a delay in diagnostic trajectory, lack of tailored communication and discussion of sensitive topics, preference for a holistic approach, and struggles with finding the way to get additional healthcare support. CONCLUSION For AYAs with a UPCP, it is important that both age-specific issues and issues related to the UPCP are understood and addressed; however, this seems not yet optimally implemented in clinical practice. This emphasizes the importance of providing this patient group with tailored care incorporating both aspects. Healthcare professionals need to be supported with training and tools to understand the healthcare needs of AYAs with a UPCP. AYAs can be empowered to take more control over their own healthcare needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian W G Burgers
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Milou J P Reuvers
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Marleen Kok
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adrianus J de Langen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martin J van den Bent
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Annemiek Dickhout
- AYA Research Partner, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Internal Medicine, Division Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- GROW-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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9
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Marsh L, McNoe B, Venter N, Quigg R, Notoa F, Reeder AI. Awareness of cancer among adolescents: A study of nine focus groups in Aotearoa New Zealand. Health Promot J Austr 2023. [PMID: 37961934 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED One third of cancers are potentially preventable by modifying key risk factors that arise during adolescence. To help inform prevention efforts, we investigated adolescents' understanding of cancer risk factors, symptoms and signs and barriers to help-seeking. METHODS Nine focus groups were conducted with purposefully sampled, binary-gendered friendship groups of 12 to 17-year-olds. Interviews were analysed using a qualitative descriptive method based on the topic schedule, transcripts and field notes. RESULTS Behavioural, genetic and environmental factors were commonly explored as risk factors. Most cancer symptoms identified focused on physical indicators, such as lumps and skin appearance. Facilitators and barriers to good health choices involved both external and internal factors: education, affordability, attitudes and the social environment. Most participants indicated they would talk to trusted friends and family members about health issues, but only when the condition became 'serious'. The most common source of health information was the internet. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents have a good understanding of behavioural risk factors, but poor knowledge of some key cancer symptoms. A support system was recognised to be a substantive factor in dealing with health issues, as were youth-focused health services. Understanding of the preventability of many cancers was not widespread with participants. SO WHAT?: The results emphasise a requirement for appropriate, affordable and accessible youth-focused health services. There is a need for age- and culturally appropriate interventions that improve knowledge of cancer symptoms. Immunisation against the viruses implicated in cervical cancer is one example of a clinical cancer prevention intervention in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Marsh
- Social & Behavioural Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Bronwen McNoe
- Social & Behavioural Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Noeleen Venter
- Social & Behavioural Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Robin Quigg
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Faith Notoa
- Social & Behavioural Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anthony I Reeder
- Social & Behavioural Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Hughes L, Fern LA, Whelan JS, Taylor RM, Study Group B. Young people's opinions of cancer care in England: the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069910. [PMID: 37730384 PMCID: PMC10514633 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study was the national evaluation of cancer services for teenager and young adults (TYA). This was analysis of free-text survey data to better understand their experiences of cancer care. DESIGN Cohort study SETTING: National Health Service hospitals delivering cancer care in England PARTICIPANTS: 830 young people newly diagnosed with cancer. INTERVENTIONS Exposure to specialist care in the first 6 months after diagnosis defined as care in a TYA Principal Treatment Centre (PTC). This was categorised as follows: all care in a TYA-PTC (ALL-TYA-PTC), no care in a TYA-PTC (NO-TYA-PTC) so care delivered in a children/adult unit only and some care in a TYA-PTC with additional care in a children's/adult unit (SOME-TYA-PTC). PRIMARY OUTCOME Data were collected through the BRIGHTLIGHT survey included free-text questions which asked patients 'what was the best aspects of their experiences of care' and 'what aspects could be improved'. These comments were analysed using content analysis. Themes were compared between categories of care, then ranked in order of frequency, ranging from the most endorsed to the least. RESULTS Overall, young people were most positive about their healthcare team, while the area highlighted for improvement was diagnostic experience. Differences between the three groups suggested those who had some or all treatment in a TYA-PTC valued the place of care. Regardless of where TYA were treated their healthcare teams were favourably viewed. Age appropriate place of care was highlighted to be of value for those in PTCs. CONCLUSIONS These data show the value young people placed on the care they received in TYA specific wards. Young people who accessed some or all of their care in a TYA-PTC highly endorsed their place of care as one of the best elements of their care, and it is further emphasised by those who had shared care who experienced difficulty with lack of age-appropriate care when treated outside the TYA-PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Hughes
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and Allied Health Profession Led Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Brightlight Study Group
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
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11
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Martin S, Clark SE, Gerrand C, Gilchrist K, Lawal M, Maio L, Martins A, Storey L, Taylor RM, Wells M, Whelan JS, Windsor R, Woodford J, Vindrola-Padros C, Fern LA. Patients' Experiences of a Sarcoma Diagnosis: A Process Mapping Exercise of Diagnostic Pathways. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3946. [PMID: 37568761 PMCID: PMC10417695 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with sarcoma often report prolonged time to diagnosis, which is attributed to the rarity of sarcoma and the low awareness of pre-diagnostic signs and symptoms. AIMS To describe patients' experiences of pre-diagnostic signs/symptoms and pathways to diagnosis, including where help was sought, and the processes involved. METHODS Mixed methods involving quantitative, qualitative and inductive thematic analyses using novel process mapping of patient journey data, as reported by the patients. We examined the time from symptom onset to first professional presentation (patient interval, PI), first consultation to diagnostic biopsy, first consultation to diagnosis (diagnostic interval) and first presentation to diagnosis (total interval). RESULTS A total of 87 interviews were conducted over 5 months in 2017. Of these, 78 (40 males/38 females) were included. The sarcoma subtypes were bone (n = 21), soft tissue (n = 41), head and neck (n = 9) and gastro-intestinal (GIST; n = 7). Age at diagnosis was 13-24 (n = 7), 25-39 (n = 23), 40-64 (n = 34) and 65+ (n = 14) years. The median PI was 13 days (1-4971) and similar between sarcoma subtypes, with the exception of GIST (mPI = 2 days, (1-60). The longest mPI (31 days, range 4-762) was for those aged 13-24 years. The median diagnostic interval was 87.5 (range 0-5474 days). A total of 21 patients were misdiagnosed prior to diagnosis and symptoms were commonly attributed to lifestyle factors. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged times to diagnosis were experienced by the majority of patients in our sample. Further research into the evolution of pre-diagnostic sarcoma symptoms is required to inform awareness interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Martin
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK; (S.M.); (S.E.C.); (K.G.); (L.M.); (C.V.-P.)
| | - Sigrún Eyrúnardóttir Clark
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK; (S.M.); (S.E.C.); (K.G.); (L.M.); (C.V.-P.)
| | - Craig Gerrand
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore HA7 4LP, UK; (C.G.); (J.W.)
| | - Katie Gilchrist
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK; (S.M.); (S.E.C.); (K.G.); (L.M.); (C.V.-P.)
| | - Maria Lawal
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK
| | - Laura Maio
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK; (S.M.); (S.E.C.); (K.G.); (L.M.); (C.V.-P.)
| | - Ana Martins
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK
| | - Lesley Storey
- Department of Psychology, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
| | - Rachel M. Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and Allied Health Profession Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK;
| | - Mary Wells
- Nursing Directorate, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London W2 1NY, UK;
| | - Jeremy S. Whelan
- Oncology Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK
| | - Rachael Windsor
- Paediatric Directorate, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK;
| | - Julie Woodford
- Sarcoma Unit, The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore HA7 4LP, UK; (C.G.); (J.W.)
| | - Cecilia Vindrola-Padros
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), University College London, London W1W 7TY, UK; (S.M.); (S.E.C.); (K.G.); (L.M.); (C.V.-P.)
| | - Lorna A. Fern
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 2PG, UK
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Shanmugavadivel D, Liu JF, Ball-Gamble A, Polanco A, Vedhara K, Nathan P, Walker D, Ojha S. Childhood bone tumours in primary care: helping GPs to identify 'the needle in the haystack'. Br J Gen Pract 2023; 73:377-379. [PMID: 37500459 PMCID: PMC10405944 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp23x734673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jo-Fen Liu
- Academic Unit of Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham. Nottingham
| | | | | | - Kavita Vedhara
- Academic Unit of Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham. Nottingham
| | - Paul Nathan
- Hollybrook Medical Centre, Parkfields Surgery, Littleover, Derby
| | - David Walker
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham
| | - Shalini Ojha
- Academic Unit of Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, and Children's Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Trust, Derby
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13
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Castelo M, Paszat L, Hansen BE, Scheer AS, Faught N, Nguyen L, Baxter NN. Comparing Time to Diagnosis and Treatment Between Younger and Older Adults With Colorectal Cancer: A Population-Based Study. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:1152-1164. [PMID: 36841489 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Younger adults (aged <50 years) with colorectal cancer (CRC) may have prolonged delays to diagnosis and treatment that are associated with adverse outcomes. We compared delay intervals by age for patients with CRC in a large population. METHODS This was a population-based study of adults diagnosed with CRC in Ontario, Canada, from 2003 to 2018. We measured the time between presentation and diagnosis (diagnostic interval), diagnosis and treatment start (treatment interval), and the time from presentation to treatment (overall interval). We compared interval lengths between adults aged <50 years, 50 to 74 years, and 75 to 89 years using multivariable quantile regression. RESULTS Included were 90,225 patients with CRC. Of these, 6853 patients (7.6%) were aged <50 years. Younger patients were more likely to be women, present emergently, have stage IV disease, and have rectal cancer compared with middle-aged patients. Factors associated with significantly longer overall intervals included female sex (8.7 days; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.6-10.9 days) and rectal cancer compared with proximal colon cancer (9.8 days; 95% CI, 7.4-2.2 days). After adjustment, adults aged <50 years had significantly longer diagnostic intervals (4.3 days; 95% CI. 1.3-7.3 days) and significantly shorter treatment intervals (-4.5 days; 95% CI, -5.3 to -3.7 days) compared with middle-aged patients. However, there was no significant difference in the overall interval (-0.6 days; 95% CI, -4.3 to 3.2 days). In stratified models, younger adults with stage IV disease who presented emergently and patients aged >75 years had longer overall intervals. CONCLUSIONS Younger adults present more often with stage IV CRC but have overall similar times from presentation to treatment as screening-eligible older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Castelo
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lawrence Paszat
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adena S Scheer
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Nancy N Baxter
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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14
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Park JH, Hong JY, Shen JJ, Han K, Park JO, Park YS, Lim HY. Increased Risk of Young-Onset Digestive Tract Cancers Among Young Adults Age 20-39 Years With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study. J Clin Oncol 2023:JCO2201740. [PMID: 37075279 DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.01740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the incidence of young-onset digestive tract cancers is increasing worldwide, their risk factors remain largely unknown. We investigated the association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and young-onset digestive tract cancers. PATIENTS AND METHODS This nationwide cohort study included 5,265,590 individuals age 20-39 years who underwent national health screening under the Korean National Health Insurance Service between 2009 and 2012. The fatty liver index was used as a diagnostic biomarker for NAFLD. The participants were followed up until December 2018 to determine the incidence of young-onset digestive tract cancers (ie, esophageal, stomach, colorectal, liver, pancreatic, biliary tract, and gallbladder). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were conducted to estimate the risk after adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS During the 38.8 million person-years of follow-up, 14,565 patients were newly diagnosed with young-onset digestive tract cancers. The cumulative incidence probability of each cancer type was consistently higher in individuals with NAFLD than in those without NAFLD (all log-rank P < .05). NAFLD was associated with an increased risk of overall digestive tract (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.16; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.22), stomach (aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.24), colorectal (aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.22), liver (aHR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.52), pancreatic (aHR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.40), biliary tract (aHR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.66), and gallbladder (aHR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.01 to 2.31) cancer. These associations remained significant regardless of age, sex, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and obesity status (all P < .05; P for interaction >.05). The aHR for esophageal cancer was 1.67 (95% CI, 0.92 to 3.03). CONCLUSION NAFLD may be an independent, modifiable risk factor for young-onset digestive tract cancers. Our findings suggest a crucial opportunity to reduce premature morbidity and mortality associated with young-onset digestive tract cancers in the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Hyun Park
- Department of Family Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Ansan, South Korea
- Department of Healthcare Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Jung Yong Hong
- Department of Healthcare Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jay J Shen
- Department of Healthcare Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Kyungdo Han
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, Soongsil University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joon Oh Park
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Suk Park
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ho Yeong Lim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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15
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Shanmugavadivel D, Liu JF, Gamble A, Polanco A, Vedhara K, Walker D, Ojha S. Assessing and investigating children with suspected bone and abdominal tumours: an e-Delphi consensus process. BMJ Paediatr Open 2023; 7:10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001771. [PMID: 36868779 PMCID: PMC9990668 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of childhood cancer has risen by 15% since the 1990s. Early diagnosis is key to optimising outcomes, however diagnostic delays are widely reported. Presenting symptoms are often non-specific causing a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians. This Delphi consensus process was conducted to develop a new clinical guideline for children and young people presenting with signs/symptoms suggestive of a bone or abdominal tumour. METHODS Invitation emails were sent to primary and secondary healthcare professionals to join the Delphi panel. 65 statements were derived from evidence review by a multidisciplinary team. Participants were asked to rank their level of agreement with each statement on a 9-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree, 9=strongly agree), with responses ≥7 taken to indicate agreement. Statements not reaching consensus were rewritten and reissued in a subsequent round. RESULTS All statements achieved consensus after two rounds. 96/133 (72%) participants responded to round 1 (R1) and 69/96 (72%) completed round 2 (R2). 62/65 (94%) statements achieved consensus in R1 with 29/65 (47%) gaining more than 90% consensus. Three statements did not reach consensus scoring between 61% and 69%. All reached numerical consensus at the end of R2. Strong consensus was reached on best practice of conducting the consultation, acknowledging parental instinct and obtaining telephone advice from a paediatrician to decide the timing and place of review, rather than adult cancer urgent referral pathways. Dissensus in statements was due to unachievable targets within primary care and valid concerns over a potential overinvestigation of abdominal pain. CONCLUSIONS This consensus process has consolidated statements that will be included in a new clinical guideline for suspected bone and abdominal tumours for use in both primary and secondary care. This evidence base will be translated into awareness tools for the public as part of the Child Cancer Smart national awareness campaign.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jo-Fen Liu
- Lifespan and Population Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ashley Gamble
- Chief Executive's Office, Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group, Leicester, UK
| | - Angela Polanco
- Chief Executive's Office, Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group, Leicester, UK
| | - Kavita Vedhara
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - David Walker
- Lifespan and Population Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Shalini Ojha
- Neonatal Unit, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK.,Centre for Perinatal Research, Lifespan and Population Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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16
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Lived Experiences of Young Adults With Lymphoma During Acute Survivorship. Cancer Nurs 2023; 46:E11-E20. [PMID: 35175948 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are hematologic malignancies of the lymphatic system with increased prevalence in young adults. Numerous studies have examined the health-related quality of life dimensions in young adults with lymphoma; yet, limited research has investigated the experiences of this population. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of young adults with Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma ( n = 8) receiving acute treatment from one National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center in the Northeastern United States. METHODS A qualitative interpretive phenomenological study design and method was applied to explore the lived experiences of young adults with lymphoma during acute survivorship. RESULTS The participants lived experiences were shaped by the diagnostic challenges and impediments of cancer and lymphoma in young adults. Through postdiagnosis, they were determined to safeguard parents and close family members from the burden of cancer. The bonds between medical oncologists and nurses offered the participants a dynamic structure to endure acute survivorship. CONCLUSION Cancer was challenging to diagnose in this sample of young adults with lymphoma. The presence of nurses was shown to be deeply impactful for young adults with lymphoma. More research is necessary to understand the experiences of young adults with lymphoma through extended or long-term survivorship. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Healthcare providers require additional education regarding the diagnostic guidelines in young adult patients with lymphoma. This study underscores the importance of well-defined and structured postdiagnosis survivorship care in young adults with lymphoma.
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Castelo M, Paszat L, Hansen BE, Scheer AS, Faught N, Nguyen L, Baxter NN. Measurement of clinical delay intervals among younger adults with colorectal cancer using health administrative data: a population-based analysis. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2022; 9:bmjgast-2022-001022. [PMID: 36410773 PMCID: PMC9680148 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2022-001022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical delays may be important contributors to outcomes among younger adults (<50 years) with colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to describe delay intervals for younger adults with CRC using health administrative data to understand drivers of delay in this population. METHODS This was a population-based study of adults <50 diagnosed with CRC in Ontario, Canada from 2003 to 2018. Using administrative code-based algorithms (including billing codes), we identified four time points along the pathway to treatment-first presentation with a CRC-related symptom, first investigation, diagnosis date and treatment start. Intervals between these time points were calculated. Multivariable quantile regression was performed to explore associations between patient and disease factors with the median length of each interval. RESULTS 6853 patients aged 15-49 were diagnosed with CRC and met the inclusion criteria. Males comprised 52% of the cohort, the median age was 45 years (IQR 40-47), and 25% had stage IV disease. The median time from presentation to treatment start (overall interval) was 109 days (IQR 55-218). Time between presentation and first investigation was short (median 5 days), as was time between diagnosis and treatment start (median 23 days). The greatest component of delay occurred between first investigation and diagnosis (median 78 days). Women, patients with distal tumours, and patients with earlier stage disease had significantly longer overall intervals. CONCLUSIONS Some younger CRC patients experience prolonged times from presentation to treatment, and time between first investigation to diagnosis was an important contributor. Access to endoscopy may be a target for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Castelo
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lawrence Paszat
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adena S Scheer
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Nancy N Baxter
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Risk of Presenting with Poor-Prognosis Metastatic Cancer in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Population-Based Study. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194932. [PMID: 36230854 PMCID: PMC9562204 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Having metastatic disease at diagnosis poses the great risk of death among AYAs with cancer from all sociodemographic subgroups. This “landscape” study utilized United States Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program data from 2000−2016 to identify subgroups of AYAs at highest risk for presenting with metastases across twelve cancer sites having a poor-prognosis (5-year survival <50% with metastases). Adjusted odds ratios for risk of metastatic disease presentation were compared for AYAs in aggregate and by sociodemographic subgroup (race/ethnicity, sex, socioeconomic status [SES]). In general, AYAs who were male, racial/ethnic minorities, or low SES were at consistently greatest risk of metastases. Strikingly, having metastatic melanoma was independently associated with multiple AYA sociodemographic subgroups, including males (aOR 3.11 [95% CI 2.64−3.66]), non-Hispanic Blacks (4.04 [2.32−7.04]), Asian Pacific Islanders (2.99 [1.75−5.12]), Hispanics (2.37 [1.85−3.04]), and low SES (2.30 [1.89−2.80]). Non-Hispanic Blacks were more likely to present with metastatic cancer in all sites, except for bone, rhabdomyosarcoma, and stomach. Low SES AYAs are more likely to present with metastatic melanoma, bone tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, breast, cervical, lung, and stomach carcinomas. Building on these results, future cancer-specific studies should investigate the connection between sociodemographic risk factors and biological drivers of metastases. This line of research has potential to inform targeted public health and screening efforts to facilitate risk reduction and earlier detection of these deadly diseases.
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Saatci D, Oke J, Harnden A, Hippisley-Cox J. Childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnosis during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based observational cohort study in England. Arch Dis Child 2022; 107:740-746. [PMID: 35318196 PMCID: PMC8960459 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-322644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnostic pathways during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in England. DESIGN Population-based cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS QResearch, a nationally representative primary care database, linked to hospital admission, mortality and cancer registry data, was used to identify childhood, teenage and young adult cancers (0-24 years) diagnosed between 1 January 2017 and 15 August 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES Main outcomes of interest were: (1) number of incident cancer diagnoses per month, (2) diagnostic, treatment time intervals and (3) cancer-related intensive care admissions. RESULTS 2607 childhood, teenage and young adult cancers were diagnosed from 1 January 2017 to 15 August 2020; 380 were diagnosed during the pandemic period. Overall, 17% (95% CI -28.0% to -4.0%) reduction in the incidence rate ratio of cancers was observed during the pandemic. Specific decreases were seen for central nervous system tumour (-38% (95% CI -52% to -21%)) and lymphoma (-28% (95% CI -45% to -5%)) diagnoses. Additionally, childhood cancers diagnosed during the pandemic were significantly more likely to have intensive care admissions (adjusted OR 2.2 (95% CI 1.33 to 3.47)). Median time-to-diagnosis did not significantly differ across periods (+4.5 days (95% CI -20.5 to +29.5)), while median time-to-treatment was shorter during the pandemic (-0.7 days (95% CI -1.1 to -0.3)). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings of a significant reduction in cancer diagnoses and increase in intensive care admissions provide initial insight into the changes that occurred to childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnostic pathways during the first wave of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defne Saatci
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jason Oke
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anthony Harnden
- Department of Primary Health Care, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
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20
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Sansom-Daly UM, Wiener L, Darlington AS, Poort H, Rosenberg AR, Weaver MS, Schulte F, Anazodo A, Phillips C, Sue L, Herbert AR, Mack JW, Lindsay T, Evans H, Wakefield CE. Thinking globally to improve care locally: A Delphi study protocol to achieve international clinical consensus on best-practice end-of-life communication with adolescents and young adults with cancer. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270797. [PMID: 35802558 PMCID: PMC9269432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
For the sizeable subset of adolescents and young adults whose cancer is incurable, developmentally appropriate end-of-life discussions are critical. Standards of care for adolescent and young adult end-of-life communication have been established, however, many health-professionals do not feel confident leading these conversations, leaving gaps in the implementation of best-practice end-of-life communication. We present a protocol for a Delphi study informing the development and implementation of clinician training to strengthen health-professionals’ capacity in end-of-life conversations. Our approach will inform training to address barriers to end-of-life communication with adolescents and young adults across Westernized Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Global Accord countries. The Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Global Accord team involves 26 investigators from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Twenty-four consumers, including adolescents and young adults with cancer history and carers, informed study design. We describe methodology for a modified Delphi questionnaire. The questionnaire aims to determine optimal timing for end-of-life communication with adolescents and young adults, practice-related content needed in clinician training for end-of-life communication with adolescents and young adults, and desireability of evidence-based training models. Round 1 involves an expert panel of investigators identifying appropriate questionnaire items. Rounds 2 and 3 involve questionnaires of international multidisciplinary health-professionals, followed by further input by adolescents and young adults. A second stage of research will design health-professional training to support best-practice end-of-life communication. The outcomes of this iterative and participatory research will directly inform the implementation of best-practice end-of-life communication across Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Global Accord countries. Barriers and training preferences identified will directly contribute to developing clinician-training resources. Our results will provide a framework to support further investigating end-of-life communication with adolescents and young adults across diverse countries. Our experiences also highlight effective methodology in undertaking highly collaborative global research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula M. Sansom-Daly
- Behavioural Sciences Unit proudly supported by the Kids with Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Prince of Wales/Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Lori Wiener
- Psychosocial Support and Research Program, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anne-Sophie Darlington
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Hanneke Poort
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Abby R. Rosenberg
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Palliative Care and Resilience Program, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Meaghann S. Weaver
- Divisions of Palliative Care & Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
- National Center for Ethics in Health Care, Washington DC, Washington, United States of America
| | - Fiona Schulte
- Division of Psychosocial Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hematology, Oncology and Transplant Program, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Prince of Wales/Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Celeste Phillips
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Louise Sue
- Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Services Team, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Anthony R. Herbert
- Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Children’s Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Population Sciences for Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Toni Lindsay
- Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Cancer Centre, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holly Evans
- Behavioural Sciences Unit proudly supported by the Kids with Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire E. Wakefield
- Behavioural Sciences Unit proudly supported by the Kids with Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Forster AS, Herbert A, Koo MM, Taylor RM, Gibson F, Whelan JS, Lyratzopoulos G, Fern LA. Associations between diagnostic time intervals and health-related quality of life, clinical anxiety and depression in adolescents and young adults with cancer: cross-sectional analysis of the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:1725-1734. [PMID: 35190694 PMCID: PMC9174449 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01698-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association of diagnostic intervals and outcomes is poorly understood in adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA). We investigated associations between diagnostic intervals and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety and depression in a large AYA cohort. METHODS Participants aged 12-24 completed interviews post-diagnosis, providing data on diagnostic experiences and the patient-reported outcomes (PROs) HRQoL, anxiety and depression. Demographic and cancer information were obtained from clinical and national records. Six diagnostic intervals were considered. Relationships between intervals and PROs were examined using regression models. RESULTS Eight hundred and thirty participants completed interviews. In adjusted models, across 28 of 30 associations, longer intervals were associated with poorer PROs. Patient intervals (symptom onset to first seeing a GP) of ≥1 month were associated with greater depression (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):1.7, 95% Confidence Interval (CI):1.1-2.5) compared to <1 month. ≥3 pre-referral GP consultations were associated with greater anxiety (aOR:1.6, CI:1.1-2.3) compared to 1-2 consultations. Symptom onset to first oncology appointment intervals of ≥2 months was associated with impaired HRQoL (aOR:1.8, CI:1.2-2.5) compared to <2 months. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged diagnostic intervals in AYA are associated with an increased risk of impaired HRQoL, anxiety and depression. Identifying and delivering interventions for this high-risk group is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice S Forster
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Annie Herbert
- Medical Research Council, Integrative Epidemiology Unit at University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Minjoung Monica Koo
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and Allied Health Profession Led Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7YH, UK
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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22
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Ballhause TM, Reiter A, Korthaus A, Frosch KH, Schlickewei CW, Priemel MH. Diagnostic delay in soft tissue tumors: a single-center study of a university cancer center with a focus on health services research. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:452. [PMID: 35387642 PMCID: PMC8988367 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07891-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumps and soft tissue tumors (STT) are frequent reasons for consulting a physician. Most STT are benign, and lumps are not always associated with a tumor. MRI is the most advanced imaging modality to assist a provisional diagnosis of STT. Only a small fraction of STT is malignant, these soft tissue sarcomas are known for their aggressive growth. The study aims to analyze the influence of the MRI report on the speed of treatment of patients with suspected STT. Methods This was a retrospective, longitudinal, single-center study from 2011–2020. We included adult patients who had biopsies or resections of masses suspicious for STT in MRI exams. MRI reports were classified as benign (I), intermediate/unclear (II), or malignant (III). For these cohorts, time was statistically analyzed from MRI scan to first contact with the University cancer center (UCC) and surgery. Furthermore, distance in kilometers from the patients´ home to the UCC was examined and compared to age and suspected malignancy. Results Three hundred two patients (♀130; ♂172) were included. Histologic analyses revealed 286 tumors. The average age of the patients was 54.7(SD: 16.2) years. Malignant tumors were more often suspected in older patients (p = 0.0098). Patients with a benign diagnosed tumor in MRI contacted the UCC after an average of 31.3 (SD: 47.8) days. In contrast, patients with suspicion of a malignant tumor contacted the UCC significantly earlier, after 14.1 days (SD: 17.1); p = 0.0098. Likewise, the time between first contact and biopsy/resection was 32.8 days (SD: 35.7) for suspiciously benign tumors, and potentially malignant tumors were treated significantly faster 14.8 (SD: 16.0) days; (p = 0.028). Patients traveled on average 47.5 km (range: 0.5–483) to contact a specialized physician at the UCC. Suspected degree of malignancy or patient´s age had no statistical influence on traveled distance. Discussion The treatment speed depended to a great extent on the suspected malignancy of the STT in the MRI report. The provisional diagnoses from the radiologist highly influenced the time delay between MRI scan and first contact to the UCC and surgical treatment. No discrimination of age or distance to the UCC was observed in this study. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07891-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias M Ballhause
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Alonja Reiter
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Korthaus
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Frosch
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Trauma Surgery, Orthopedics and Sports Traumatology, BG Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten W Schlickewei
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias H Priemel
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, Germany
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23
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Majano SB, Lyratzopoulos G, Rachet B, de Wit NJ, Renzi C. Do presenting symptoms, use of pre-diagnostic endoscopy and risk of emergency cancer diagnosis vary by comorbidity burden and type in patients with colorectal cancer? Br J Cancer 2022; 126:652-663. [PMID: 34741134 PMCID: PMC8569047 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01603-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer patients often have pre-existing comorbidities, which can influence timeliness of cancer diagnosis. We examined symptoms, investigations and emergency presentation (EP) risk among colorectal cancer (CRC) patients by comorbidity status. METHODS Using linked cancer registration, primary care and hospital records of 4836 CRC patients (2011-2015), and multivariate quantile and logistic regression, we examined variations in specialist investigations, diagnostic intervals and EP risk. RESULTS Among colon cancer patients, 46% had at least one pre-existing hospital-recorded comorbidity, most frequently cardiovascular disease (CVD, 18%). Comorbid versus non-comorbid cancer patients more frequently had records of anaemia (43% vs 38%), less frequently rectal bleeding/change in bowel habit (20% vs 27%), and longer intervals from symptom-to-first relevant test (median 136 vs 74 days). Comorbid patients were less likely investigated with colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy, independently of symptoms (adjusted OR = 0.7[0.6, 0.9] for Charlson comorbidity score 1-2 and OR = 0.5 [0.4-0.7] for score 3+ versus 0. EP risk increased with comorbidity score 0, 1, 2, 3+: 23%, 35%, 33%, 47%; adjusted OR = 1.8 [1.4, 2.2]; 1.7 [1.3, 2.3]; 3.0 [2.3, 4.0]) and for patients with CVD (adjusted OR = 2.0 [1.5, 2.5]). CONCLUSIONS Comorbid individuals with as-yet-undiagnosed CRC often present with general rather than localising symptoms and are less likely promptly investigated with colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy. Comorbidity is a risk factor for diagnostic delay and has potential, additionally to symptoms, as risk-stratifier for prioritising patients needing prompt assessment to reduce EP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Benitez Majano
- Inequalities in Cancer Outcomes Network (ICON) Group, Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO) Research Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Bernard Rachet
- Inequalities in Cancer Outcomes Network (ICON) Group, Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Niek J de Wit
- University Medical Center, Utrecht University, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cristina Renzi
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO) Research Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
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24
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Bloxham N, Cross J, Garnett M, Bewick J, Armon K, Hook CE, Murray MJ. Hodgkin Lymphoma Presenting With Spinal Cord Compression: Challenges for Diagnosis and Initial Management. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:168-173. [PMID: 34428078 PMCID: PMC9109237 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211033269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) can present with extra-nodal disease, but spinal cord compression is exceptionally rare. We describe a 15-year-old presenting with hip/back pain with normal initial examination. Persistent pain and raised inflammatory markers prompted further investigation with MRI, which revealed an epidural mass causing spinal cord compression. On examination, there was no palpable lymphadenopathy or cauda equina syndrome, but absent lower limb reflexes were noted. Following multidisciplinary discussion, it was determined that cauda equina syndrome was imminent and therefore surgical debulking was undertaken, both to prevent this complication and establish a diagnosis. At surgery, the tumor was highly vascular. Frozen section confirmed lesional material. Following surgery, and given the frozen section findings, a short course of steroids was commenced to reduce any peri-surgical edema. Unfortunately, histopathology was ultimately non-diagnostic, due to failure of immunohistochemistry on technically challenging material. Consequently, ultrasound-guided excision biopsy of a (non-palpable) cervical lymph node was performed five days later; histopathology showed typical effacement of the normal architecture and a conspicuous population of CD15/CD30-positive larger pale cells present, confirming nodular sclerosis classic HL, despite recent steroids. We review the available literature for HL presenting with spinal cord compression and describe the challenges for diagnosis and initial management in such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bloxham
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Justin Cross
- Department of Radiology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew Garnett
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jessica Bewick
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kate Armon
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - C Elizabeth Hook
- Department of Paediatric Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK,Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK,Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, UK,Matthew J Murray, Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.
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25
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Ingley KM, Maleddu A, Grange FL, Gerrand C, Bleyer A, Yasmin E, Whelan J, Strauss SJ. Current approaches to management of bone sarcoma in adolescent and young adult patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29442. [PMID: 34767314 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Bone tumors are a group of histologically diverse diseases that occur across all ages. Two of the commonest, osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing sarcoma (ES), are regarded as characteristic adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancers with an incidence peak in AYAs. They are curable for some but associated with unacceptably high rates of treatment failure and morbidity. The introduction of effective new therapeutics for bone sarcomas is slow, and to date, complex biology has been insufficiently characterized to allow more rapid therapeutic exploitation. This review focuses on current standards of care, recent advances that have or may soon change that standard of care and challenges to the expert clinical research community that we suggest must be met.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina M Ingley
- London Sarcoma Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Alessandra Maleddu
- London Sarcoma Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Franel Le Grange
- London Sarcoma Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Craig Gerrand
- London Sarcoma Service, Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Stanmore, UK
| | - Archie Bleyer
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Ephia Yasmin
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Whelan
- London Sarcoma Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sandra J Strauss
- London Sarcoma Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
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26
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Taylor RM, Fern LA, Barber J, Gibson F, Lea S, Patel N, Morris S, Alvarez-Galvez J, Feltbower R, Hooker L, Martins A, Stark D, Raine R, Whelan JS. Specialist cancer services for teenagers and young adults in England: BRIGHTLIGHT research programme. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar09120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background
When cancer occurs in teenagers and young adults, the impact is far beyond the physical disease and treatment burden. The effect on psychological, social, educational and other normal development can be profound. In addition, outcomes including improvements in survival and participation in clinical trials are poorer than in younger children and older adults with similar cancers. These unique circumstances have driven the development of care models specifically for teenagers and young adults with cancer, often focused on a dedicated purpose-designed patient environments supported by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in the needs of teenagers and young adults. In England, this is commissioned by NHS England and delivered through 13 principal treatment centres. There is a lack of evaluation that identifies the key components of specialist care for teenagers and young adults, and any improvement in outcomes and costs associated with it.
Objective
To determine whether or not specialist services for teenagers and young adults with cancer add value.
Design
A series of multiple-methods studies centred on a prospective longitudinal cohort of teenagers and young adults who were newly diagnosed with cancer.
Settings
Multiple settings, including an international Delphi study of health-care professionals, qualitative observation in specialist services for teenagers and young adults, and NHS trusts.
Participants
A total of 158 international teenage and young adult experts, 42 health-care professionals from across England, 1143 teenagers and young adults, and 518 caregivers.
Main outcome measures
The main outcomes were specific to each project: key areas of competence for the Delphi survey; culture of teenagers and young adults care in the case study; and unmet needs from the caregiver survey. The primary outcome for the cohort participants was quality of life and the cost to the NHS and patients in the health economic evaluation.
Data sources
Multiple sources were used, including responses from health-care professionals through a Delphi survey and face-to-face interviews, interview data from teenagers and young adults, the BRIGHTLIGHT survey to collect patient-reported data, patient-completed cost records, hospital clinical records, routinely collected NHS data and responses from primary caregivers.
Results
Competencies associated with specialist care for teenagers and young adults were identified from a Delphi study. The key to developing a culture of teenage and young adult care was time and commitment. An exposure variable, the teenagers and young adults Cancer Specialism Scale, was derived, allowing categorisation of patients to three groups, which were defined by the time spent in a principal treatment centre: SOME (some care in a principal treatment centre for teenagers and young adults, and the rest of their care in either a children’s or an adult cancer unit), ALL (all care in a principal treatment centre for teenagers and young adults) or NONE (no care in a principal treatment centre for teenagers and young adults). The cohort study showed that the NONE group was associated with superior quality of life, survival and health status from 6 months to 3 years after diagnosis. The ALL group was associated with faster rates of quality-of-life improvement from 6 months to 3 years after diagnosis. The SOME group was associated with poorer quality of life and slower improvement in quality of life over time. Economic analysis revealed that NHS costs and travel costs were similar between the NONE and ALL groups. The ALL group had greater out-of-pocket expenses, and the SOME group was associated with greater NHS costs and greater expense for patients. However, if caregivers had access to a principal treatment centre for teenagers and young adults (i.e. in the ALL or SOME groups), then they had fewer unmet support and information needs.
Limitations
Our definition of exposure to specialist care using Hospital Episode Statistics-determined time spent in hospital was insufficient to capture the detail of episodes or account for the variation in specialist services. Quality of life was measured first at 6 months, but an earlier measure may have shown different baselines.
Conclusions
We could not determine the added value of specialist cancer care for teenagers and young adults as defined using the teenage and young adult Cancer Specialism Scale and using quality of life as a primary end point. A group of patients (i.e. those defined as the SOME group) appeared to be less advantaged across a range of outcomes. There was variation in the extent to which principal treatment centres for teenagers and young adults were established, and the case study indicated that the culture of teenagers and young adults care required time to develop and embed. It will therefore be important to establish whether or not the evolution in services since 2012–14, when the cohort was recruited, improves quality of life and other patient-reported and clinical outcomes.
Future work
A determination of whether or not the SOME group has similar or improved quality of life and other patient-reported and clinical outcomes in current teenage and young adult service delivery is essential if principal treatment centres for teenagers and young adults are being commissioned to provide ‘joint care’ models with other providers.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 9, No. 12. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and Allied Health Profession Led Research, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- National Cancer Research Institute, London, UK
| | - Julie Barber
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children’s Health, Illness and Disability, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Lea
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nishma Patel
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen Morris
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Javier Alvarez-Galvez
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Richard Feltbower
- Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Louise Hooker
- Wessex Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Service, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ana Martins
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Dan Stark
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James’s, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Rosalind Raine
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Soomers VLMN, Lidington E, Sirohi B, Gonzalez MA, Darlington AS, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. The Prolonged Diagnostic Pathway of Young Adults (Aged 25-39) with Cancer in the United Kingdom: Results from the Young Adult Cancer Patient Journey Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204646. [PMID: 34682769 PMCID: PMC8540185 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Teenagers and young adults (TYAs; aged 13–24) experience prolonged intervals to cancer diagnosis. Insight into diagnostic intervals in young adults (YAs; aged 25–39) and subgroups at risk for long intervals is lacking. We investigated the diagnostic pathway of YA cancer patients, examined patient and tumor characteristics associated with its length, and compared the patient interval length of our sample with a TYA cohort. Methods: In this cross-sectional survey YAs diagnosed with cancer in the UK in the past five years completed a questionnaire describing their patient (time from first symptom to first doctor consultation) and healthcare interval (from first consultation until consultation with a cancer specialist), sociodemographic, and clinical characteristics. Associations between characteristics and interval length were examined and compared with previously published data in TYAs. Results: Among 341 YAs the patient interval lasted ≥2 weeks, ≥1 month, and ≥3 months in 60%, 42%, and 21%, respectively, compared to 48%, 27%, and 12% in the TYA group. The healthcare interval lasted ≥2 weeks, ≥1 month, and ≥3 months in 62%, 40%, and 17% of YA patients, respectively. YAs with melanoma or cervical cancer were most likely to experience long intervals, whereas YAs with breast cancer and leukemia were most likely to experience short intervals. Conclusions: Most YAs were not seen by a cancer specialist within 2 weeks of GP consultation. Interval lengths in YAs were associated with cancer diagnosis. Patient intervals were longer among YAs than among TYAs. Our study highlights long diagnostic pathways among YAs and calls for more awareness among healthcare professionals about malignancies in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victorien L. M. N. Soomers
- Radboudumc, Department of Medical Oncology, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (V.L.M.N.S.); (O.H.)
| | - Emma Lidington
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, UK; (E.L.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.)
| | - Bhawna Sirohi
- Max Institute of Cancer Care, Max Healthcare, New Delhi 110024, India;
| | | | | | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, UK; (E.L.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London SM2 5NG, UK
- Correspondence: (V.L.M.N.S.); (O.H.)
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28
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Fern LA, Taylor RM, Barber J, Alvarez-Galvez J, Feltbower R, Lea S, Martins A, Morris S, Hooker L, Gibson F, Raine R, Stark DP, Whelan J. Processes of care and survival associated with treatment in specialist teenage and young adult cancer centres: results from the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044854. [PMID: 33827838 PMCID: PMC8031022 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Survival gains in teenagers and young adults (TYA) are reported to be lower than children and adults for some cancers. Place of care is implicated, influencing access to specialist TYA professionals and research.Consequently, age-appropriate specialist cancer care is advocated for TYA although systematic investigation of associated outcomes is lacking. In England, age-appropriate care is delivered through 13 Principal Treatment Centres (TYA-PTC). BRIGHTLIGHT is the national evaluation of TYA cancer services to examine outcomes associated with differing places and levels of care. We aimed to examine the association between exposure to TYA-PTC care, survival and documentation of clinical processes of care. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING 109 National Health Service (NHS) hospitals across England. PARTICIPANTS 1114 TYA, aged 13-24, newly diagnosed with cancer between 2012 and 2014. INTERVENTION Participants were assigned a TYA-PTC category dependent on the proportion of care delivered in a TYA-PTC in the first year after diagnosis: all care in a TYA-PTC (ALL-TYA-PTC, n=270), no care in a TYA-PTC (NO-TYA-PTC, n=359), and some care in a TYA-PTC with additional care in a children's/adult unit (SOME-TYA-PTC, n=419). PRIMARY OUTCOME Data were collected on documented processes indicative of age-appropriate care using clinical report forms, and survival through linkage to NHS databases. RESULTS TYA receiving NO-TYA-PTC care were less likely to have documentation of molecular diagnosis, be reviewed by a children's or TYA multidisciplinary team, be assessed by supportive care services or have a fertility discussion. There was no significant difference in survival according to category of care. There was weak evidence that the association between care category and survival differed by age (p=0.08) with higher HRs for those over 19 receiving ALL or SOME-TYA-PTC compared with NO-TYA-PTC. CONCLUSION TYA-PTC care was associated with better documentation of clinical processes associated with age-appropriate care but not improved survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna A Fern
- Oncology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and AHP Led Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julie Barber
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Javier Alvarez-Galvez
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, University of Cadiz, Cadiz, Spain
| | | | - Sarah Lea
- Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ana Martins
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Stephen Morris
- Primary Care Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise Hooker
- Wessex Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Service, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rosalind Raine
- Institute of Epidemiology & Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dan P Stark
- Leeds Insitute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Jeremy Whelan
- Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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29
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Drabbe C, Grünhagen DJ, Van Houdt WJ, Braam PM, Soomers VLMN, Van der Hage JA, De Haan JJ, Keymeulen KBMI, Husson O, Van der Graaf WTA. Diagnosed with a Rare Cancer: Experiences of Adult Sarcoma Survivors with the Healthcare System-Results from the SURVSARC Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040679. [PMID: 33567553 PMCID: PMC7914609 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients with rare cancers face obstacles including delays in diagnosis, inadequate treatments and limited scientific evidence to guide decision making. These obstacles may have a unique impact on their experience with the healthcare system and might be different at various ages. Some aspects of care that shape the experience with the healthcare system include information needs, satisfaction with care and supportive care. Very little is known about these aspects of care, specifically for rare cancer patients. Sarcomas are prime examples of rare cancers and are diagnosed at all ages. In this study, we explored the experience of sarcoma patients (N = 1099) with the healthcare system and looked into detail at whether differences in experience existed between age groups. The results of this nationwide study showed that healthcare experiences differ per age group and we identified needs related to the rarity of these tumors, such as improvements concerning (non-)medical guidance and diagnostic intervals. Abstract The aim of this study was to explore the experience of rare cancer patients with the healthcare system and examine differences between age groups (adolescents and young adults (AYA, 18–39 years), older adults (OA, 40–69 years) and elderly (≥70 years)). Dutch sarcoma patients, 2–10 years after diagnosis, completed a questionnaire on their experience with the healthcare system, satisfaction with care, information needs, patient and diagnostic intervals (first symptom to first doctor’s visit and first doctor’s visit to diagnosis, respectively) and received supportive care. In total, 1099 patients completed the questionnaire (response rate 58%): 186 AYAs, 748 OAs and 165 elderly. Many survivors experienced insufficient medical and non-medical guidance (32% and 38%), although satisfaction with care was rated good to excellent by 94%. Both patient and diagnostic intervals were >1 month for over half of the participants and information needs were largely met (97%). AYAs had the longest patient and diagnostic intervals, experienced the greatest lack of (non-)medical guidance, had more desire for patient support groups and used supportive care most often. This nationwide study among sarcoma survivors showed that healthcare experiences differ per age group and identified needs related to the rarity of these tumors, such as improvements concerning (non-)medical guidance and diagnostic intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cas Drabbe
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J. Grünhagen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Winan J. Van Houdt
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Pètra M. Braam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Vicky L. M. N. Soomers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Jos A. Van der Hage
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Jacco J. De Haan
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Kristien B. M. I. Keymeulen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, Sutton, London SM2 5NG, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Winette T. A. Van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.D.); (W.T.A.V.d.G.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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30
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Goh SSN, Loo EXL, Lee DJK. Trends and Clinical Outcomes in Young-onset Colorectal Cancer Patients. ANNALS ACADEMY OF MEDICINE SINGAPORE 2020. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.20207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Young individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC) tend to be diagnosed at advanced stages and are not routinely included in screening programmes. This study
describes the incidence, disease pattern and factors affecting overall survival in young-
onset CRC.
Methods: A retrospective study of young-onset CRC patients diagnosed between 2010
and 2017 in a tertiary hospital was conducted.
Results: There were 99 patients, 69.7% had left-sided while 30.3% had right-sided CRC.
The mean age was 43.3 years (43.3±5.0) and 62 patients (62.6%) were male. The
incidence of young-onset CRC has been on the rise since 2014. Out of 99 patients, 65 (65.7%) underwent elective surgery, 30 (30.3%) underwent emergency surgery and the remainder 5 (4.0%) were palliated. The most common presenting complaints for patients who underwent elective surgery were abdominal pain, per-rectal bleeding and altered
bowel habits. For patients who required emergency surgery, 20 (66.6%) presented with intestinal obstruction and 10 (33.3%) had intestinal perforation. There were 42 (42.4%) stage III CRC and 20 (20.2%) stage IV CRC. The most frequent metastatic site was the liver (20/20, 100%). Five patients had signet ring cells (5.1%) in their histology while
15 (15.2%) had mucinous features. The overall 5-year survival of young-onset CRC
was 82.0%. Advanced overall stage (hazard ratio (HR) 6.1, CI 1.03–3.62) and signet
ring histology (HR 34.2, CI 2.24–5.23) were associated with poor prognosis.
Conclusion: Young-onset CRC tend to be left-sided with advanced presentations.
However, their 5-year survival remains favourable as compared to the general population.
Keywords: Colorectal screening in the young, early-onset colorectal cancer, signet ring cell colorectal cancer
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31
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Pedersen LH, Wahlberg A, Cordt M, Schmiegelow K, Dalton SO, Larsen HB. Parent's perspectives of the pathway to diagnosis of childhood cancer: a matter of diagnostic triage. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:969. [PMID: 33092610 PMCID: PMC7584100 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05821-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early diagnosis is crucial for the treatment of childhood cancer as it in some cases can prevent progression of disease and improve prognoses. However, childhood cancer can be difficult to diagnose and barriers to early diagnosis are multifactorial. New knowledge about factors influencing the pathway to diagnosis contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that influence this time span. Qualitative research in the field is sparse but can be expected to lead to additional useful insights that could contribute to efforts shorten time to diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to explore parents' experiences of the pathway to diagnosis in the time between their noticing bodily or behavioural changes and their child's diagnosis. METHODS The study is a qualitative interview study carried out in large Danish hospital. Thirty-two interviews with a total of 46 parents of children with cancer were included for analysis. The children were diagnosed with haematological cancers (n = 17), solid tumours (n = 9) or brain tumours (n = 6). Data were analysed applying the theoretical model of pathways to treatment and an inductive-deductive approach. A revised 'diagnostic triage' model was developed and validated by member checking. RESULTS The pathway to diagnosis was influenced by various factors which we present as consistent parts of a new diagnostic triage model. Each factor impacts the level of urgency assigned to bodily and behavioural changes by parents, general practitioners and specialists. The model of diagnostic triage was developed and validated to understand mechanisms influencing time from the point parents notice changes in their child to diagnosis. The model identifies dynamic movement between parental triage in everyday life and professional triage in a healthcare system, both affecting appraisal and case escalation according to: 1) the nature of bodily and behavioural changes, 2) parental intuition, 3) social relations, 4) professional-child-parent interaction, and 5) specialist-child-parent interaction. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic triage is a model which explains mechanisms that shape the pathway to diagnosis. It is a contribution aimed at supporting the clinical diagnostic process, that ultimately could ensure more timely testing, referral and diagnosis, and also a novel theoretical framework for future research on diagnostic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayo Wahlberg
- Department of Anthropology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Cordt
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kjeld Schmiegelow
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Oksbjerg Dalton
- Danish Cancer Society Research Centre, Survivorship and Inequality in Cancer, Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Oncology & Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Naestved, Denmark
| | - Hanne Bækgaard Larsen
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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32
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Soomers VLMN, Husson O, Desar IME, van de Sande MAJ, de Haan JJ, Verhoef C, Vriens IJH, van Houdt WJ, van de Poll-Franse L, van der Graaf WTA. Patient and diagnostic intervals of survivors of sarcoma: Results from the SURVSARC study. Cancer 2020; 126:5283-5292. [PMID: 33002193 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients diagnosed with sarcoma are hypothesized to experience a prolonged route to a cancer diagnosis. This route, the total interval, can be divided into a patient interval (the time from the appearance of symptoms to physician consultation) and diagnostic interval (time from the first consultation to diagnosis). In the current study, the authors investigated these intervals among survivors of sarcoma and identified factors associated with prolonged intervals. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients with sarcoma 2 to 10 years after diagnosis. Patients completed a questionnaire regarding their total interval, which was linked to clinical data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Descriptive statistics were used to describe intervals. Based on Dutch clinical guidelines, a diagnostic interval ≥1 month was considered to be prolonged and an interval ≥3 months was considered as very long. Multivariable regression analyses investigated associations between patient and tumor characteristics and interval length. RESULTS A total of 1099 participants were included (response rate, 58%); approximately 60% reported a patient interval ≥1 month and 36% reported a patient interval ≥3 months. Risk factors for a very long patient interval were sarcoma of the skin or pelvis, liposarcoma, or rhabdomyosarcoma. Stage III disease was associated with a shorter patient interval. The diagnostic interval length was ≥1 month in 55% of patients and ≥3 months in 28% of patients. Risk factors for a very long diagnostic interval were female sex, age <70 years, or having a synovial sarcoma or chordoma. CONCLUSIONS The patient and diagnostic interval lengths were prolonged in a substantial percentage of this sarcoma survivorship population. Factors found to be associated with the length of the patient interval or the diagnostic interval differed. Creating awareness among (especially young) patients to consult a physician and awareness among physicians to consider a sarcoma diagnosis will contribute to optimization of the total interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky L M N Soomers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ingrid M E Desar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jacco J de Haan
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingeborg J H Vriens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Winan J van Houdt
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke van de Poll-Franse
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychology in Somatic Disorders, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Koo MM, Lyratzopoulos G, Herbert A, Abel GA, Taylor RM, Barber JA, Gibson F, Whelan J, Fern LA. Association of Self-reported Presenting Symptoms With Timeliness of Help-Seeking Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer in the BRIGHTLIGHT Study. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2015437. [PMID: 32880648 PMCID: PMC7489839 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.15437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Evidence regarding the presenting symptoms of cancer in adolescents and young adults can support the development of early diagnosis interventions. Objective To examine common presenting symptoms in adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 24 years who subsequently received a diagnosis of cancer and potential variation in time to help-seeking by presenting symptom. Design, Setting, and Participants This multicenter study is a cross-sectional analysis of the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study, which was conducted across hospitals in England. Participants included adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 24 years with cancer. Information on 17 prespecified presenting symptoms and the interval between symptom onset and help-seeking (the patient interval) was collected through structured face-to-face interviews and was linked to national cancer registry data. Data analysis was performed from January 2018 to August 2019. Exposures Self-reported presenting symptoms. Main Outcomes and Measures The main outcomes were frequencies of presenting symptoms and associated symptom signatures by cancer group and the proportion of patients with each presenting symptom whose patient interval was longer than 1 month. Results The study population consisted of 803 adolescents and young adults with valid symptom information (443 male [55%]; 509 [63%] aged 19-24 years; 705 [88%] White). The number of symptoms varied by cancer group: for example, 88 patients with leukemia (86%) presented with 2 or more symptoms, whereas only 9 patients with melanoma (31%) presented with multiple symptoms. In total, 352 unique symptom combinations were reported, with the 10 most frequent combinations accounting for 304 patients (38%). Lump or swelling was reported by more than one-half the patients (419 patients [52%; 95% CI, 49%-56%]). Other common presenting symptoms across all cancers were extreme tiredness (308 patients [38%; 95% CI, 35%-42%]), unexplained pain (281 patients [35%; 95% CI, 32%-38%]), night sweats (192 patients [24%; 95% CI, 21%-27%]), lymphadenopathy (191 patients [24%; 95% CI, 21%-27%]), and weight loss (190 patients [24%; 95% CI, 21%-27%]). The relative frequencies of presenting symptoms also varied by cancer group; some symptoms (such as lump or swelling) were highly prevalent across several cancer groups (seen in >50% of patients with lymphomas, germ cell cancers, carcinomas, bone tumors, and soft-tissue sarcomas). More than 1 in 4 patients (27%) reported a patient interval longer than 1 month; this varied from 6% (1 patient) for fits and seizures to 43% (18 patients) for recurrent infections. Conclusions and Relevance Adolescents and young adults with cancer present with a broad spectrum of symptoms, some of which are shared across cancer types. These findings point to discordant presenting symptom prevalence estimates when information is obtained from patient report vs health records and indicate the need for further symptom epidemiology research in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjoung M. Koo
- Epidemiology of Cancer and Healthcare Outcomes Research Group, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer and Healthcare Outcomes Research Group, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Annie Herbert
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Gary A. Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School, St Luke’s Campus, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel M. Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife, and Allied Health Professional-led Research, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julie A. Barber
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Faith Gibson
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children’s Health, Illness and Disability, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy Whelan
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lorna A. Fern
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Weaver R, O'Connor M, Carey Smith R, Halkett GK. The complexity of diagnosing sarcoma in a timely manner: perspectives of health professionals, patients, and carers in Australia. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:711. [PMID: 32746832 PMCID: PMC7397572 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05532-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prolonged diagnosis intervals occur more often in rare cancers, such as sarcoma. Patients with a delayed diagnosis may require more radical surgery and have a reduced chance of survival. Previous research has focused on quantifying the time taken to achieve a diagnosis without exploring the reasons for potential delays. The aim of this study was to explore patients’, carers’, and health professionals’ perceived barriers to timely diagnosis and referral for treatment for sarcoma. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with: health professionals working with sarcoma (n = 21); patients who have been diagnosed with sarcoma (n = 22); and carers of patients diagnosed with sarcoma (n = 17). Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Four overarching themes were identified: patient perception of symptoms, difficulties of diagnosis, lack of experience, and availability of health services. Diagnosis was prolonged by the limited availability of health services, lack of prompt referrals to a sarcoma specialist centre, and diagnostic challenges. Intervals also occurred when patients underestimated the severity of their symptoms and did not seek prompt medical consultation. Conclusions Patients with a potential sarcoma need to be promptly referred to a sarcoma specialist centre and additional diagnosis pathways need to be developed to reduce the rate of patients being referred to wrong specialists. Sarcoma education must be embedded in medical courses and professional development curricula. A public health approach should be taken to improve sarcoma knowledge and health seeking behaviours in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Weaver
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit (WACPRU), School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Richard Carey Smith
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Perth Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Centre, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Georgia Kb Halkett
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
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35
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Soomers VLMN, Desar IME, van de Poll-Franse LV, van de Sande MAJ, de Haan JJ, Verhoef C, Vriens IJH, van Houdt WJ, Bonenkamp JJ, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. The Perceived Impact of Length of the Diagnostic Pathway Is Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life of Sarcoma Survivors: Results from the Dutch Nationwide SURVSARC Study. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2088. [PMID: 32731426 PMCID: PMC7465613 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcoma patients often experience a long time to diagnosis, known as the total interval. This interval can be divided into the patient (time from symptoms to doctor consultation) and diagnostic intervals (time from first consultation to diagnosis). In other cancers, a long total interval has been associated with worse outcomes, but its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has never been investigated among sarcoma patients. This study investigates the association between (1) the actual time to diagnosis and HRQoL; (2) the perceived impact of the diagnostic interval length and HRQoL; (3) the actual length and perceived impact of the length and the HRQoL of sarcoma survivors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed among sarcoma patients aged ≥18, diagnosed 2-10 years ago in the Netherlands. The participants completed a questionnaire on HRQoL, the time to diagnosis, the perceived impact of the diagnostic interval on HRQoL, and coping. RESULTS 1099 participants were included (response rate, 58%). The mean time since diagnosis was 67.4 months. More than half reported a patient (60%) or diagnostic interval (55%) ≥1 month. A third (31%) perceived a negative impact of the diagnostic interval length on HRQoL. Patient or diagnostic interval length was not associated with HRQoL. By contrast, participants perceiving a negative impact (32%) had lower HRQoL scores than those perceiving a positive (11%) or no impact (58%) (p = 0.000). This association remained significant in a multivariable model, in which maladaptive coping strategies and tumour characteristics were also found to be associated with HRQoL. Participants perceiving a negative impact of the length of the diagnostic interval related this to high psychological distress levels, more physical disabilities, and worse prognosis. CONCLUSION The perceived impact of the diagnostic interval length was associated with the HRQoL of sarcoma survivors, whereas the actual length was not associated with HRQoL. Maladaptive coping strategies were independently associated with HRQoL. This offers opportunities for early intervention to improve HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky L. M. N. Soomers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (V.L.M.N.S.); (I.M.E.D.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.)
| | - Ingrid M. E. Desar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (V.L.M.N.S.); (I.M.E.D.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.)
| | - Lonneke V. van de Poll-Franse
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), 3511 DT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychology in Somatic Diseases, Tilburg University, CoRPS, 5037 AB Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jacco J. de Haan
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ingeborg J. H. Vriens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Winan J. van Houdt
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Johannes J. Bonenkamp
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (V.L.M.N.S.); (I.M.E.D.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London SM2 5NG, UK
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Loucaides EM, Fitchett EJA, Sullivan R, Atun R. Global public and philanthropic investment in childhood cancer research: systematic analysis of research funding, 2008-16. Lancet Oncol 2020; 20:e672-e684. [PMID: 31797794 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(19)30662-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Childhood cancers caused an estimated 75 000 deaths in children aged 0-14 years in 2018, of which 90% were in low-income and middle-income countries, and yet this group is missing from global health agendas. We examined global patterns in public and philanthropic funding for childhood cancer research-a proxy for global research activity-to address the critical gaps in knowledge. We used data from the Dimensions database to systematically search for and analyse 3414 grants from 115 funders across 35 countries between 2008 and 2016, organised by funding source, recipient, tumour type, research focus, and pipeline categories, to investigate trends over time. During this period, global funding for childhood cancer research was US$2 billion, of which $772 million (37·9%) was for general childhood cancer, $449 million (22·0%) was for leukaemias, and $330 million (16·2%) was for CNS tumours. $1·6 billion (77·7%) of funding was awarded from, and to, institutions based in the USA. Preclinical research received $1·2 billion (59·3%), and around $525 million (25·7%) included support for clinical trials, but only $113 million (5·5%) supported health-care delivery research. Overall, funding was inadequate and geographically inequitable, and new commitments to funding have declined since 2011.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth J A Fitchett
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, Conflict and Health Research Group, School of Cancer Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rifat Atun
- Department of Global Health and Population, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
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Triarico S, Capozza MA, Mastrangelo S, Attinà G, Maurizi P, Ruggiero A. Gynecological cancer among adolescents and young adults (AYA). ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:397. [PMID: 32355841 PMCID: PMC7186636 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2020.02.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (AYA) patients with cancer show specific biological, sociodemographic and behavioral features, with lower survival rates than younger group. Gynecologic malignancies that occur among AYA requires a multidisciplinary management and a tailored model of care, in order to enhance the early diagnosis, the adherence to the treatment, the enrollment in clinical trials, the rate of survival and the quality of life (QoL). In this article, we review the main gynecological tumors that may occur in AYA, with a focus on the clinical signs at the diagnosis and the modality of treatment. In addition, we proposed a model of multidisciplinary and personalized care for AYA with gynecological tumors, which can help the clinicians to manage the specific gynecologic concerns, such as ovarian failure, contraception, fertility, late psychosocial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Triarico
- Unità di Oncologia Pediatrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Mastrangelo
- Unità di Oncologia Pediatrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Pediatria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Attinà
- Unità di Oncologia Pediatrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Palma Maurizi
- Unità di Oncologia Pediatrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Pediatria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ruggiero
- Unità di Oncologia Pediatrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Pediatria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Swann R, Lyratzopoulos G, Rubin G, Pickworth E, McPhail S. The frequency, nature and impact of GP-assessed avoidable delays in a population-based cohort of cancer patients. Cancer Epidemiol 2020; 64:101617. [PMID: 31810885 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2019.101617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing emphasis on the speed of diagnosis as an aspect of cancer prognosis. While epidemiological data in the last decade have quantified diagnostic timeliness and its variation, whether and how often prolonged diagnostic intervals can be considered avoidable is unknown. METHODS We used data from the English National Cancer Diagnosis Audit (NCDA) on 17,042 patients diagnosed with cancer in 2014. Participating primary care physicians were asked to identify delays in diagnosis that they deemed avoidable, together with the 'setting' of the avoidable delay and key attributable factors. We used descriptive analysis and regression frameworks to assess validity and examine variation in the frequency and nature of avoidable delays. RESULTS Among 14,259 patients, 24% were deemed to have had an avoidable delay to their diagnosis. Patients with a reported avoidable delay had a longer median diagnostic interval (92 days) than those without (30 days). Of all avoidable delays, 13% were deemed to have occurred pre-consultation, 49% within primary care, and 38% within secondary care. Avoidable delays were mostly attributed to the test request/performance phase (25%). Multimorbidity was associated with greater odds of avoidable delay (OR for 3+ vs no comorbidity: 1.43 (95% CI 1.25-1.63)), with heterogeneous associations with cancer site. CONCLUSION We have shown that GP-identified instances of avoidable delay have construct validity. Whilst the causes of avoidable diagnostic delays are multi-factorial and occur in different settings and phases of the diagnostic process, their analysis can guide improvement initiatives and enable the examination of any prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Swann
- Cancer Research UK, 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ, United Kingdom; National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, United Kingdom.
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, United Kingdom; Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Greg Rubin
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Sir James Spence Institute, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Pickworth
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, United Kingdom
| | - Sean McPhail
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, United Kingdom
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Sansom-Daly UM, Wakefield CE, Patterson P, Cohn RJ, Rosenberg AR, Wiener L, Fardell JE. End-of-Life Communication Needs for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: Recommendations for Research and Practice. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2019; 9:157-165. [PMID: 31660768 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2019.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing evidence base highlights the negative impact of poor psychosocial care at end-of-life. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) 15-39 years of age with cancer face unique medical and psychosocial challenges that make them especially vulnerable when treatment is not successful. Although the importance of age-appropriate medical and psychosocial care is internationally recognized for AYAs across the cancer trajectory, there is little guidance on best-practice care and communication practices with AYAs as they approach the end-of-life. We conducted a narrative review and found evidence points to the potential benefits of introducing palliative care teams early in the care trajectory. Research undertaken to date emphasizes the importance of exploring AYAs' preferences around end-of-life issues in a repeated, consistent manner, and highlighted that AYAs may have strong preferences on a range of issues such as being able to stay in their own home, being comfortable and free from pain, and expressing their wishes to loved ones. We highlight a number of best-practice recommendations to guide clinicians around the critical elements of when, who, what, and how end-of-life conversations may be best facilitated with AYAs. Gaps in the evidence base remain, including research focusing on better understanding barriers and facilitators to timely, age-appropriate end-of-life communication for AYAs with different diagnoses, where discordance between AYA-parent preferences exists, and when AYAs die at home versus in hospital. We have proposed a new model to support clinicians and researchers to better conceptualize how interacting individual, familial, and sociocultural factors impact end-of-life communication with AYAs in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Pandora Patterson
- Department of Research, Evaluation & Social Policy, CanTeen Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Cancer Nursing Research Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard J Cohn
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington.,Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lori Wiener
- National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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40
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Dynamics and Challenges of Clinical Trials in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 24:307-314. [PMID: 30480575 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Inclusion in cancer clinical trials is considered the optimal standard of care, offering improved patient experience and progressive survival gains for subsequent generations of patients. Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients are underrepresented in cancer research; consequently, improvements in outcomes for AYAs lag behind their pediatric and adult counterparts. Despite international evidence of underrepresentation in research, systematically tested interventions to improve recruitment for AYAs do not exist, and recruitment rates for AYAs continue to be lower than those for children. We review recruitment of AYAs into trials and discuss barriers and facilitators.
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Aldiss S, Fern LA, Phillips RS, Callaghan A, Dyker K, Gravestock H, Groszmann M, Hamrang L, Hough R, McGeachy D, Morgan S, Smith S, Upadhyaya S, Veitch H, Veitch L, Williamson M, Whelan JS, Gibson F. Research priorities for young people with cancer: a UK priority setting partnership with the James Lind Alliance. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028119. [PMID: 31383701 PMCID: PMC6688702 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To conduct a UK-wide survey of young people who have experienced cancer, carers and professionals, to identify and prioritise research questions to inform decisions of research funders and support the case for research with this unique cancer population. DESIGN James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership. SETTING UK health service and community. METHODS A steering group oversaw the initiative and partner organisations were recruited. Unanswered questions were collected in an online survey. Evidence searching verified uncertainties. An interim survey was used to rank questions prior to a final prioritisation workshop. PARTICIPANTS Young people aged 13-24 years with a current or previous cancer diagnosis, their families, friends, partners and professionals who work with this population. RESULTS Two hundred and ninety-two respondents submitted 855 potential questions. Following a refining process and removal of 'out of scope' questions, 208 unique questions remained. Systematic evidence checking identified seven answered questions and 16 were the subject of ongoing studies. The interim survey was completed by 174 participants. The top 30 questions were prioritised at a workshop attended by 25 young people, parents and multidisciplinary professionals. The top three priorities are: (1) What psychological support package improves psychological well-being, social functioning and mental health during and after treatment? (2) What interventions, including self-care, can reduce or reverse adverse short-term and long-term effects of cancer treatment? (3) What are the best strategies to improve access to clinical trials? The remaining questions reflect the complete cancer pathway: new therapies, life after cancer, support, education/employment, relapse and end-of-life care. CONCLUSIONS We have identified shared research priorities for young people with cancer using a rigorous, person-centred approach involving stakeholders typically not involved in setting the research agenda. The breadth of priorities suggest future research should focus on holistic and psychosocial care delivery as well as traditional drug/biology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Aldiss
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Oncology Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Teenage, Young Adult and Germ Cell Clinical Studies Group, National Cancer Research Institute, London, UK
| | | | - Amy Callaghan
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Priority Setting Partnership steering group, London, UK
| | - Karen Dyker
- Oncology, Level 4, Bexley Wing, St James' University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Michael Groszmann
- Paediatric & Adolescent Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Leila Hamrang
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Priority Setting Partnership steering group, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hough
- Children and Young Peoples Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Demi McGeachy
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Priority Setting Partnership steering group, London, UK
| | - Sue Morgan
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Service, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK
| | - Sam Smith
- Service Delivery, Teenage Cancer Trust, London, UK
| | - Sheela Upadhyaya
- The James Lind Alliance, National Institute for Health Research Evaluation, Southampton, UK
| | - Helen Veitch
- Service Delivery, Teenage Cancer Trust, London, UK
| | - Lara Veitch
- Teenage, Young Adult and Germ Cell Clinical Studies Group, National Cancer Research Institute, London, UK
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Priority Setting Partnership steering group, London, UK
| | - Max Williamson
- Teenage, Young Adult and Germ Cell Clinical Studies Group, National Cancer Research Institute, London, UK
- Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Priority Setting Partnership steering group, London, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Oncology Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Pettit T, Sue L, Waugh V, Ballantine K, Gardner K, Bremer L, Pemberton L, Allison L, Adams S, Chou E, Spearing R. An Age Stratified Analysis of the Access to Care Continuum Across Three Tumor Groups: Are There Delays for AYA? J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2019; 8:402-409. [DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2018.0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Pettit
- Children's Hematology Oncology Centre, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Louise Sue
- South Island Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Val Waugh
- South Island Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Kirsten Ballantine
- Children's Hematology Oncology Centre, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Children's Haematology Oncology Centre, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Kate Gardner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Louise Bremer
- Department of Medical Oncology and Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lucy Pemberton
- Department of Haematology, Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lucy Allison
- Division of Health Sciences, Otago Medical School, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Savannah Adams
- Division of Health Sciences, Otago Medical School, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Eunice Chou
- Division of Health Sciences, Otago Medical School, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ruth Spearing
- Department of Haematology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Dommett RM, Pring H, Cargill J, Beynon P, Cameron A, Cox R, Nechowska A, Wint A, Stevens MCG. Achieving a timely diagnosis for teenagers and young adults with cancer: the ACE "too young to get cancer?" study. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:616. [PMID: 31234813 PMCID: PMC6591830 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5776-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Time to diagnosis (TTD) concerns teenagers and young adults (TYA) with cancer and may affect outcome. Methods Healthcare records from 105 TYA in a regional cancer service were assessed to document events from 1st symptom to treatment start. Detailed pathway construction was possible for 104 patients and allowed a multidisciplinary panel review of each pathway with assessment of good practice and lessons for the future. Results 1st presentation was to primary care in 86, and 93% consulted in primary care before diagnosis. Routes to Diagnosis were 45% via urgent 2 Week Wait pathways and 38% as emergency referrals. Total Interval (time from 1st presentation to treatment start) was median 63 (range 1–559) days, varying within/between diagnoses. Patient interval (time from 1st symptom to 1st presentation) was longest for lymphoma, carcinoma and bone tumour (medians: 9, 12, 20 days). Overall, time in primary care was short (median 3, range 0–537 days) compared to secondary care (median 29, range 0–195 days) and longest for lymphoma, carcinoma, brain/CNS (medians: 10, 15, 16 days). Specialist Care interval (time from 1st specialist visit to treatment start) was longest for bone, brain/CNS, lymphoma, carcinoma (medians: 30, 33, 36, 48 days). 40% pathways were rated as showing good/best practice but 16% were less than satisfactory. Continued safety-netting/support was identified from primary care but analysis suggested opportunities for improvement in transition through secondary care. Conclusions Previous reports of prolonged TTD have focused on delay in referral from primary care but this study suggests that this might be reduced by optimising management in secondary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Dommett
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK.,Department of Paediatric Haematology Oncology & BMT, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah Pring
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK
| | - Jamie Cargill
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK
| | - Paul Beynon
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK
| | - Alison Cameron
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK
| | - Rachel Cox
- Department of Paediatric Haematology Oncology & BMT, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Aoife Nechowska
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK
| | - Alison Wint
- Macmillan GP and NHS Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire CCG, Bristol, UK
| | - Michael C G Stevens
- South West TYA Cancer Service, Bristol Haematology Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK. .,Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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Taylor RM, Fern LA, Barber J, Alvarez-Galvez J, Feltbower R, Morris S, Hooker L, McCabe MG, Gibson F, Raine R, Stark DP, Whelan JS. Description of the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort: the evaluation of teenage and young adult cancer services in England. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027797. [PMID: 31005941 PMCID: PMC6500338 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE International recognition of the unique needs of young people with cancer is growing. Many countries have developed specialist age-appropriate cancer services believing them to be of value. In England, 13 specialist principal treatment centres (PTCs) deliver cancer care to young people. Despite this expansion of specialist care, systematic investigation of associated outcomes and costs has, to date, been lacking. The aim of this paper is to describe recruitment and baseline characteristics of the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort and the development of the bespoke measures of levels of care and disease severity, which will inform the evaluation of cancer services in England. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal, observational study. SETTING Ninety-seven National Health Service hospitals in England. PARTICIPANTS A total of 1114 participants were recruited and diagnosed between July 2012 and December 2014: 55% (n=618) were men, mean age was 20.1 years (SD=3.3), most (86%) were white and most common diagnoses were lymphoma (31%), germ cell tumour (19%) and leukaemia (13%). RESULTS At diagnosis, median quality of life score was significantly lower than a published control threshold (69.7 points); 40% had borderline to severe anxiety, and 21% had borderline to severe depression. There was minimal variation in other patient-reported outcomes according to age, diagnosis or severity of illness. Survival was lower in the cohort than for young people diagnosed during the same period who were not recruited (cumulative survival probability 4 years after diagnosis: 88% vs 92%). CONCLUSIONS Data collection was completed in March 2018. Longitudinal comparisons will determine outcomes and costs associated with access/exposure to PTCs. Findings will inform international intervention and policy initiatives to improve outcomes for young people with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Taylor
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julie Barber
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Javier Alvarez-Galvez
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, University of Cadiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | | | - Stephen Morris
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Louise Hooker
- Wessex Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Service, University Hospital Southhamptom, Southampton, UK
| | - Martin G McCabe
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- ORCHID, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Rosalind Raine
- Institute of Epidemiology & Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dan P Stark
- Leeds Insitute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Stark D, Fern LA, Gibson F, Hawkins M, Hough R, McCabe MG, Taylor R. Transitioning adolescent and young adult cancer care research out of its adolescence. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2018; 27:e12962. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Stark
- Department of Cancer Medicine; Leeds UK
- UK NCRI clinical studies group in Teenagers and Young Adults with cancer and Germ Cell Tumours; London UK
| | - Lorna A. Fern
- National Cancer Research Institute Teenage, Young Adult and Germ Cell Clinical Studies Group, Cancer Division; University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; London UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- Child Health and Cancer Care; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust and University of Surrey; London UK
| | - Mike Hawkins
- Centre for Childhood Cancer Survivor Studies; University of Birmingham; Birmingham UK
| | - Rachael Hough
- Haematology and Haemopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; UCL, London UK
- University College London Hospital’s NHS Foundation Trust; London UK
- NHS England Clinical Reference Group for Children and Young People with Cancer; London UK
| | - Martin G. McCabe
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre; University of Manchester; Manchester UK
| | - Rachel Taylor
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit; CNMR, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; London UK
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Diagnostic timeliness of cancer in adolescents and young adults. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2018; 2:159-161. [DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(18)30027-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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