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Alrossais AA, Alshihri MA, Alsubaihi NS, Almoheteb LM, Bakhiet HM, Hassanein MH. Satisfaction and Experience of Women with Breast Cancer Screening Services in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Mater Sociomed 2023; 35:124-129. [PMID: 37701346 PMCID: PMC10495151 DOI: 10.5455/msm.2023.35.124-129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Satisfaction of women with breast cancer screening programs is important to ensure the program effectiveness. Objective To assess the experience and satisfaction of women with breast cancer screening services. Methods This was a descriptive study targeting 312 women undergoing mammography screening in Riyadh Region in Saudi Arabia. The data were collected through telephone interviews using a structured questionnaire covering eight domains. Weighted means were calculated by dividing the average scores for each item and domain by their maximum scores. Multiple regression was performed to identify the factors related to general satisfaction. Results Overall satisfaction weighted mean was 0.879. Experiences were best for physical surroundings and perceived competency of staff domains with weighted means of 0.929 and 0.914 respectively. Accessibility and waiting time, and staff interpersonal skills domains came next with weighted means of 0.901 and 0.876 respectively. Information transfer, physical discomfort and psychological discomfort domains came last with weighted means of 0.783, 0.736 and 0.673 respectively. General satisfaction was related to waiting time and access domain (Exp(B) =.709 (95% CI: .595-.843, p value: .000), staff interpersonal skills domain (Exp(B) = .815 (95% CI: .686- .968, p value: .020) and perceived competency of the staff domain (Exp(B) = .660 (95% CI: .458- .951, p value: .026). Conclusions Overall satisfaction with breast cancer screening was high and the experience of women was highly positive for most of the domains. More efforts are needed to improve the information transfer by addressing the language barriers and to enhance the physical and psychological experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Alshihri
- Department of Public Health, General Directorate of Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Hagir Mohammed Bakhiet
- Department of Public Health, General Directorate of Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muna Hassan Hassanein
- Department of Public Health, General Directorate of Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Smith P, Moody G, Clarke E, Hiscock J, Cannings-John R, Townson J, Edwards A, Quinn-Scoggins HD, Sewell B, Jones D, Lloydwin C, Thomas S, Casey D, Lloyd-Bennett C, Stanton H, Lugg-Widger FV, Huws D, Watkins A, Newton G, Thomas AM, McCutchan GM, Brain K. Protocol for a feasibility study of a cancer symptom awareness campaign to support the rapid diagnostic centre referral pathway in a socioeconomically deprived area: Targeted Intensive Community-based campaign To Optimise Cancer awareness (TIC-TOC). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063280. [PMID: 36223970 PMCID: PMC9562715 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rapid diagnostic centres (RDCs) are being implemented across the UK to accelerate the assessment of vague suspected cancer symptoms. Targeted behavioural interventions are needed to augment RDCs that serve socioeconomically deprived populations who are disproportionately affected by cancer, have lower cancer symptom awareness and are less likely to seek help for cancer symptoms. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of delivering and evaluating a community-based vague cancer symptom awareness intervention in an area of high socioeconomic deprivation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Intervention materials and messages were coproduced with local stakeholders in Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Wales. Cancer champions will be trained to deliver intervention messages and distribute intervention materials using broadcast media (eg, local radio), printed media (eg, branded pharmacy bags, posters, leaflets), social media (eg, Facebook) and attending local community events. A cross-sectional questionnaire will include self-reported patient interval (time between noticing symptoms to contacting the general practitioner), cancer symptom recognition, cancer beliefs and barriers to presentation, awareness of campaign messages, healthcare resource use, generic quality of life and individual and area-level deprivation indicators. Consent rates and proportion of missing data for patient questionnaires (n=189) attending RDCs will be measured. Qualitative interviews and focus groups will assess intervention acceptability and barriers/facilitators to delivery. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval for this study was given by the London-West London & GTAC Research Ethics (21/LO/0402). This project will inform a potential future controlled study to assess intervention effectiveness in reducing the patient interval for vague cancer symptoms. The results will be critical to informing national policy and practice regarding behavioural interventions to support RDCs in highly deprived populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Smith
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Eleanor Clarke
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Julia Hiscock
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor Institute for Health and Medical Research, Bangor University, Bangor University, Wrexham, UK
| | | | - Julia Townson
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Adrian Edwards
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Bernadette Sewell
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Daniel Jones
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Sara Thomas
- Cwm Taf Public Health Team, Public Health Wales, Public Health Wales, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - Dawn Casey
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Cwm Taf, UK
| | | | - Helen Stanton
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Dyfed Huws
- Public Health Wales, Welsh Cancer Intelligence & Surveillance Unit, Cardiff, Wales, UK
- Population Data Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, West Glamorgan, UK
| | - Angela Watkins
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Gareth Newton
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Patient and Public Involvement, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Grace M McCutchan
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kate Brain
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Merker VL, Slobogean B, Jordan JT, Langmead S, Meterko M, Charns MP, Elwy AR, Blakeley JO, Plotkin SR. Understanding barriers to diagnosis in a rare, genetic disease: Delays and errors in diagnosing schwannomatosis. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:2672-2683. [PMID: 35678462 PMCID: PMC9378587 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of rare, genetic diseases is challenging, but conceptual frameworks of the diagnostic process can guide quality improvement initiatives. Using the National Academy of Medicine diagnostic framework, we assessed the extent of, and reasons for diagnostic delays and diagnostic errors in schwannomatosis, a neurogenetic syndrome characterized by nerve sheath tumors and chronic pain. We reviewed the medical records of 97 people with confirmed or probable schwannomatosis seen in two US tertiary care clinics. Time-to-event analysis revealed a median time from first symptom to diagnosis of 16.7 years (95% CI, 7.5-26.0 years) and median time from first medical consultation to diagnosis of 9.8 years (95% CI, 3.5-16.2 years). Factors associated with longer times to diagnosis included initial signs/symptoms that were intermittent, non-specific, or occurred at younger ages (p < 0.05). Thirty-six percent of patients were misdiagnosed; misdiagnoses were of underlying genetic condition (18.6%), pain etiology (16.5%), and nerve sheath tumor presence/pathology (11.3%) (non-mutually exclusive categories). One-fifth (19.6%) of patients had a clear missed opportunity for genetics workup that could have led to an earlier schwannomatosis diagnosis. These results suggest that interventions in clinician education, genetic testing availability, expert review of pathology findings, and automatic triggers for genetics referrals may improve diagnosis of schwannomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa L. Merker
- Department of Neurology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Bronwyn Slobogean
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Justin T. Jordan
- Department of Neurology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Shannon Langmead
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mark Meterko
- Analytics and Performance Integration, Office of Quality and Patient Safety, Veterans Health Administration, Bedford, MA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Martin P. Charns
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA
| | - A. Rani Elwy
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI
| | - Jaishri O. Blakeley
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Scott R. Plotkin
- Department of Neurology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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4
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Karnchanachari N, Milton S, Muhlen-Schulte T, Scarborough R, Holland JF, Walter FM, Zalcberg J, Emery J. The SYMPTOM-upper gastrointestinal study: A mixed methods study exploring symptom appraisal and help-seeking in Australian upper gastrointestinal cancer patients. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13605. [PMID: 35523160 PMCID: PMC9542126 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13605] [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: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective There is limited evidence on the development of pancreatic and oesophagogastric cancer, how patients decide to seek help and the factors impacting help‐seeking. Our study, the first in Australia, aimed to explore symptom appraisal and diagnostic pathways in these patients. A secondary aim was to examine the potential to recruit cancer patients through a cancer quality registry. Methods Patients diagnosed with pancreatic or oesophagogastric cancer were recruited through Monash University's Upper‐Gastrointestinal Cancer Registry. Data collected through general practitioners (GP) and patient questionnaires included symptoms and their onset, whereas patient interviews focused on the patient's decision‐making in seeking help from healthcare pracitioners. Data collection and analysis was informed by the Aarhus statement. Coding was inductive, and themes were mapped onto the Model of Pathways to Treatment. Results Between November 2018 and March 2020, 27 patient questionnaires and 13 phone interviews were completed. Prior to diagnosis, patients lacked awareness of pancreatic and oesophagogastric cancer symptoms, leading to the normalisation, dismissal and misattribution of the symptoms. Patients initially self‐managed symptoms, but worsening of symptoms and jaundice triggered help‐seeking. Competing priorities, beliefs about illnesses and difficulties accessing healthcare delayed help‐seeking. Conclusion Increased awareness of insidious pancreatic and oesophagogastric cancer symptoms in patients and general practitioners may prompt more urgent investigations and lead to earlier diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napin Karnchanachari
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shakira Milton
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tjuntu Muhlen-Schulte
- School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Riati Scarborough
- School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer F Holland
- School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fiona M Walter
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - John Zalcberg
- School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Nnaji CA, Ezenwankwo EF, Kuodi P, Walter FM, Moodley J. Timeliness of diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers and associated factors in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057685. [PMID: 35121607 PMCID: PMC8819798 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Addressing the barriers to early breast and cervical cancer diagnosis in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) requires a sound understanding and accurate assessment of diagnostic timeliness. This review aimed to map the current evidence on the time to breast and cervical cancer diagnosis and associated factors in LMICs. DESIGN Scoping review. SOURCES MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Library, Scopus and CINAHL. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies describing the time to diagnosis and associated factors in the context of breast and cervical cancer in LMICs published from 1 January 2010 to 20 May 2021. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS Two reviewers independently screened all abstracts and full texts using predefined inclusion criteria. The review was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Evidence was narratively synthesised using predefined themes. RESULTS Twenty-six studies conducted across 24 LMICs were included in the review, most (24/26) of which focused on breast cancer. Studies varied considerably in their conceptualisation and assessment of diagnostic time, events, intervals and delays, with a minority of the studies reporting the use of validated methods and tools. Patient-related intervals and delays were more frequently evaluated and reported than provider-related and health system-related intervals and delays. Across studies, there were variations in the estimated lengths of the appraisal, help-seeking, patient and diagnostic intervals for both cancers and the factors associated with them. CONCLUSIONS Despite the significant burden of breast and cervical cancer in LMICs, there is limited information on the timeliness of diagnosis of these cancers. Major limitations included variations in conceptualisation and assessment of diagnostic events and intervals. These underscore the need for the use of validated and standardised tools, to improve accuracy and translation of findings to better inform interventions for addressing diagnostic delays in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwudi A Nnaji
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Elochukwu F Ezenwankwo
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Paul Kuodi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Fiona M Walter
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Cancer Research Initiative, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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6
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Martins T, Walter FM, Penfold C, Abel G, Hamilton W. Primary care use by men with symptoms of possible prostate cancer: A multi-method study with an ethnically diverse sample in London. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13482. [PMID: 34152656 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to investigate primary care use by men with recent onset of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) to identify differences in presentation and investigation that may explain ethnic inequality in prostate cancer outcomes. METHODS This is a multi-method study of men presenting LUTS to primary care. Two hundred seventy-four men completed a self-administered questionnaire, and 23 participated in face-to-face interviews. Regression analyses investigated ethnic differences in (a) the period between symptom onset and first primary care presentation (patient interval) and (b) the interval between first primary care presentation and investigation with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examination (DRE). Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Half (144, 53%) reported a solitary first symptom, although multiple first symptoms were also common, particularly in Asian and Black men. There was no difference between ethnicities in patient interval or time from presentation to investigation. However, Asian men were offered less PSA testing (odds ratio 0.39; 95% confidence interval 0.17-0.92; p = 0.03). Qualitative data revealed ethnic differences in general practitioners' offer of DRE and PSA testing and highlighted limitations in doctor-patient communication and safety netting. CONCLUSION Our study showed only small differences in primary care experiences, insufficient to explain ethnic inequalities in prostate cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanimola Martins
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter-College House St Luke's Campus, Exeter, UK
| | - Fiona M Walter
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Clarissa Penfold
- Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, London, UK
| | - Gary Abel
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter-College House St Luke's Campus, Exeter, UK
| | - William Hamilton
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter-College House St Luke's Campus, Exeter, UK
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7
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McCutchan G, Weiss B, Quinn-Scoggins H, Dao A, Downs T, Deng Y, Ho H, Trung L, Emery J, Brain K. Psychosocial influences on help-seeking behaviour for cancer in low-income and lower middle-income countries: a mixed-methods systematic review. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2020-004213. [PMID: 33531348 PMCID: PMC7868297 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-004213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Starting cancer treatment early can improve outcomes. Psychosocial factors influencing patients’ medical help-seeking decisions may be particularly important in low and lower middle-income countries (LMIC) where cancer outcomes are poor. Comprehensive review evidence is needed to understand the psychosocial influences on medical help-seeking for cancer symptoms, attendance for diagnosis and starting cancer treatment. Methods Mixed-methods systematic review registered on PROSPERO (CRD42018099057). Peer-reviewed databases were searched until April 2020 for studies assessing patient-related barriers and facilitators to medical help-seeking for cancer symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in adults (18+ years) living in LMICs. Quality of included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. Data were synthesised using meta-analytic techniques, meta-ethnography or narrative synthesis as appropriate. Results Of 3963 studies identified, 64 were included. In quantitative studies, use of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) was associated with 3.60 higher odds of prolonged medical help-seeking (95% CI 2.06 to 5.14). Qualitative studies suggested that use of TCAM was a key barrier to medical help-seeking in LMICs, and was influenced by causal beliefs, cultural norms and a preference to avoid biomedical treatment. Women face particular barriers, such as needing family permission for help-seeking, and higher stigma for cancer treatment. Additional psychosocial barriers included: shame and stigma associated with cancer such as fear of social rejection (eg, divorce/disownment); limited knowledge of cancer and associated symptoms; and financial and access barriers associated with travel and appointments. Conclusion Due to variable quality of studies, future evaluations would benefit from using validated measures and robust study designs. The use of TCAM and gender influences appear to be important barriers to help-seeking in LMIC. Cancer awareness campaigns developed with LMIC communities need to address cultural influences on medical help-seeking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace McCutchan
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK .,Wales Cancer Research Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Bahr Weiss
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Harriet Quinn-Scoggins
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,PRIME Centre Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anh Dao
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tom Downs
- Department of Acute Medicine, Ysbyty Gwynedd, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, Gwynedd, UK
| | - Yunfeng Deng
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ha Ho
- Center for Research, Information and Services in Psychology, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Lam Trung
- Danang Psychiatric Hospital, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Jon Emery
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Brain
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Pakravan F, Abbasi F, Garshasbi MA, Isfahani MN. Relationship between oral cancer stage and elapsed time from the onset of signs and symptoms to diagnosis and treatment. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 28:100428. [PMID: 34225105 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral cancer includes a variety of diagnoses of malignancies that manifest in the oral tissues. Prognosis and treatment depend on the site of involvement, the time of diagnosis, and the stage of the tumor. Early diagnosis of oral mucosal lesions facilitates the early detection of cancer, which is a key step for treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between delayed referral of patients with oral cancer and disease progression at the time of diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 108 patients with a definitive diagnosis of oral cancer by a standardized questionnaire. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, frequency, frequency percentage, and inferential statistics, including logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS The mean time of referral to a therapist was 17.73 ± 22.80 weeks, with 53 (49.1%) patients having a delay of more than 10 weeks. Age, education level, smoking, disease stage, N class, M class, and type of cancer were not significantly associated with the incidence of delay (P>0.05). Patients whose first signs were significant bleeding and/or unrecovered ulceration showed a significant reduction in the delay time (OR = 0.024 and P = 0.038). CONCLUSION There was no significant relationship between the disease progression in oral cancer and the time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment. Hence, it seems necessary to take appropriate measures to enhance public awareness of oral cancer and its symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Pakravan
- Department of Oral Medicine, Dental Implants Research Center, Dental Research Institute, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abbasi
- Department of Oral Medicine, Dental Research Center, Dental Research Institute, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Garshasbi
- Dental Students Research Committee, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Nasr Isfahani
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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9
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Nnaji CA, Kuodi P, Walter FM, Moodley J. Timeliness of diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers and associated factors in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044093. [PMID: 33958339 PMCID: PMC8103943 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast and cervical cancer are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in women globally, with disproportionately high burdens in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). While the incidence of both cancers increases across LMICs, many cases continue to go undiagnosed or diagnosed late. The aim of this review is to comprehensively map the current evidence on the time to breast or cervical cancer diagnosis and its associated factors in LMICs. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This scoping review (ScR) will be informed by Arksey and O'Malley's enhanced ScR methodology framework. It will be reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. We will conduct a comprehensive search of the following electronic databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Library, Scopus and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Two reviewers will independently screen all abstracts and full texts using predefined inclusion criteria. All publications describing the time to diagnosis and its associated factors in the contexts of breast or cervical cancer will be considered for inclusion. Evidence will be narratively synthesised and analysed using a predefined conceptual framework. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION As this is a ScR of publicly available data, with no primary data collection, it will not require ethical approval. Findings will be disseminated widely through a peer-reviewed publication and forums such as conferences and community engagement sessions. This review will provide a user-friendly evidence summary for understanding the enormity of diagnostic delays and associated factors for breast and cervical cancers in LMICs, while helping to inform policy actions and implementation of interventions for addressing such delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwudi A Nnaji
- Cancer Research Initiative, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Paul Kuodi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Fiona M Walter
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jennifer Moodley
- Cancer Research Initiative, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
- SAMRC Gynaecology Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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10
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Slade AL, Retzer A, Ahmed K, Kyte D, Keeley T, Armes J, Brown JM, Calman L, Gavin A, Glaser AW, Greenfield DM, Lanceley A, Taylor RM, Velikova G, Turner G, Calvert MJ. Systematic review of the use of translated patient-reported outcome measures in cancer trials. Trials 2021; 22:306. [PMID: 33902699 PMCID: PMC8074490 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05255-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used in clinical trials to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of interventions. Inclusion of participants from different ethnic backgrounds is essential for generalisability of cancer trial results. PRO data collection should include appropriately translated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to minimise missing data and sample attrition. METHODS Protocols and/or publications from cancer clinical trials using a PRO endpoint and registered on the National Institute for Health Research Portfolio were systematically reviewed for information on recruitment, inclusion of ethnicity data, and use of appropriately translated PROMs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders to explore barriers and facilitators for optimal PRO trial design, diverse recruitment and reporting, and use of appropriately translated PROMs. RESULTS Eighty-four trials met the inclusion criteria, only 14 (17%) (n = 4754) reported ethnic group data, and ethnic group recruitment was low, 611 (13%). Although 8 (57%) studies were multi-centred and multi-national, none reported using translated PROMs, although available for 7 (88%) of the studies. Interviews with 44 international stakeholders identified a number of perceived barriers to ethnically diverse recruitment including diverse participant engagement, relevance of ethnicity to research question, prominence of PROs, and need to minimise investigator burden. Stakeholders had differing opinions on the use of translated PROMs, the impact of trial designs, and recruitment strategies on diverse recruitment. Facilitators of inclusive research were described and examples of good practice identified. CONCLUSIONS Greater transparency is required when PROs are used as primary or secondary outcomes in clinical trials. Protocols and publications should demonstrate that recruitment was accessible to diverse populations and facilitated by trial design, recruitment strategies, and appropriate PROM usage. The use of translated PROMs should be made explicit when used in cancer clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Slade
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. .,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK. .,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.
| | - A Retzer
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - K Ahmed
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - D Kyte
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK
| | - T Keeley
- Patient Centred Outcomes, GlaxoSmithKline, Brentford, UK
| | - J Armes
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Kent Surrey & Sussex University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - J M Brown
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - L Calman
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Macmillan Survivorship Research Group, Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton, UK
| | - A Gavin
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Centre for Public Health, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - A W Glaser
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - D M Greenfield
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Sheffield Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - A Lanceley
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - R M Taylor
- National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Psychosocial Oncology and Survivorship Clinical Studies Group subgroup: Understanding and measuring the consequences of cancer and its treatment, London, UK.,Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - G Velikova
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - G Turner
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - M J Calvert
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Applied Research Collaboration, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.,Birmingham Health Partners Centre for Regulatory Science and Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
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11
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Evaluating the delay prior to primary care presentation in patients with lung cancer: a cohort study. BJGP Open 2021; 5:BJGPO.2020.0130. [PMID: 33293412 PMCID: PMC8170596 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2020.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about 'within-patient delay', which is the time from first symptom of lung cancer to contacting primary care. Aim Primary outcomes were length of within-patient delay and the proportion of total delay it represents. Secondary outcomes were factors causing delay and survival. Design & setting A cohort study of newly diagnosed patients with lung cancer at two hospitals in Norfolk. Method Patients completed questionnaires regarding onset of symptoms, whether they had delayed, and their reasons. GPs completed correlating questionnaires. Pathway times and other data were extracted from cancer registry and hospital records, and outcomes obtained prospectively. Factors causing delay were compared using ratios of geometric means. Results In 379 patients, mean within-patient delay and pre-secondary care delay were 188.6 days and 241 days (61.4% and 78.5% of total delay, respectively). It was found that 38.8% of patients felt they had delayed. Patient-related causes of delay were denial (ratio of means [ROM] = 4.36; P = 0.002, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.71 to 11.1); anxiety (ROM = 3.36; P = 0.026; 95% CI = 1.16 to 9.76); non-recognition of symptoms (ROM = 2.80; P = 0.004; 95% CI = 1.41 to 5.59); and smoking (ROM = 1.76; P = 0.021; 95% CI = 1.09 to 2.86), respectively. These symptoms were associated with delay: finger swelling or discomfort (ROM = 2.72; P = 0.009, 95% CI = 1.29 to 5.74); cough (ROM = 2.53; P<0.001; 95% CI = 1.52 to 4.19); weight loss (ROM = 2.41; P<0.001; 95% CI = 1.49 to 3.88); weakness (ROM = 2.35; P = 0.001; 95% CI = 1.45 to 3.83); dyspnoea (ROM = 2.30; P = 0.001; 95% CI = 1.40 to 3.80); voice change (ROM = 1.90; P = 0.010; 95% CI = 1.17 to 3.10); and sputum (ROM = 1.66; P = 0.039; 95% CI = 1.03 to 2.67), respectively, also having more than five symptoms (compared with 1–3) (ROM = 3.69; P<0.001; 95% CI = 2.05 to 6.64). No overall relation between within-patient delay and survival was seen. Conclusion Using smoking registers, awareness literature, and self-care manuals, primary care staff could liaise with people who have ever smoked regarding their symptoms to ensure early referral to secondary care.
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12
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Kassirian S, Dzioba A, Hamel S, Patel K, Sahovaler A, Palma DA, Read N, Venkatesan V, Nichols AC, Yoo J, Fung K, Mendez A, MacNeil SD. Delay in diagnosis of patients with head-and-neck cancer in Canada: impact of patient and provider delay. Curr Oncol 2020; 27:e467-e477. [PMID: 33173386 PMCID: PMC7606041 DOI: 10.3747/co.27.6547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Head-and-neck cancers (hncs) often present at an advanced stage, leading to poor outcomes. Late presentation might be attributable to patient delays (reluctance to seek treatment, for instance) or provider delays (misdiagnosis, prolonged wait time for consultation, for example). The objective of the present study was to examine the length and cause of such delays in a Canadian universal health care setting. Methods Patients presenting for the first time to the hnc multidisciplinary team (mdt) with a biopsy-proven hnc were recruited to this study. Patients completed a survey querying initial symptom presentation, their previous medical appointments, and length of time between appointments. Clinical and demographic data were collected for all patients. Results The average time for patients to have their first appointment at the mdt clinic was 15.1 months, consisting of 3.9 months for patients to see a health care provider (hcp) for the first time since symptom onset and 10.7 months from first hcp appointment to the mdt clinic. Patients saw an average of 3 hcps before the mdt clinic visit (range: 1-7). No significant differences in time to presentation were found based on stage at presentation or anatomic site. Conclusions At our tertiary care cancer centre, a patient's clinical pathway to being seen at the mdt clinic shows significant delays, particularly in the time from the first hcp visit to mdt referral. Possible methods to mitigate delay include education about hnc for patients and providers alike, and a more streamlined referral system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kassirian
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A Dzioba
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - S Hamel
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - K Patel
- Department of Otolaryngology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, U.S.A
| | - A Sahovaler
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - D A Palma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - N Read
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - V Venkatesan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A C Nichols
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - J Yoo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - K Fung
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A Mendez
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - S D MacNeil
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
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13
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White V, Bergin RJ, Thomas RJ, Whitfield K, Weller D. The pathway to diagnosis and treatment for surgically managed lung cancer patients. Fam Pract 2020; 37:234-241. [PMID: 31665265 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmz064] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most lung cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in poor survival. This study examined diagnostic pathways for patients with operable lung cancer to identify factors contributing to early diagnosis. METHODS Surgically treated lung cancer patients (aged ≥40, within 6 months of diagnosis), approached via the population-based Cancer Registry, with their primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists completed cross-sectional surveys assessing symptoms, diagnostic route (symptomatic or 'investigation' of other problem), tests, key event dates and treatment. Time intervals to diagnosis and treatment were determined, and quantile regression examined differences between the two diagnostic routes. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses examined associations between survival and diagnostic route adjusting for stage, sex and age. RESULTS One hundred and ninety-two patients (36% response rate), 107 PCPs and 55 specialists participated. Fifty-eight per cent of patients had a symptomatic diagnostic route reporting an average of 1.6 symptoms, most commonly cough, fatigue or haemoptysis. Symptomatic patients had longer median primary care interval than 'investigation' patients (12 versus 9 days, P < 0.05) and were more likely to report their PCP first-ordered imaging tests. Secondary care interval was shorter for symptomatic (median = 43 days) than investigation (median = 62 days, P < 0.05) patients. However, 56% of all patients waited longer than national recommendations (6 weeks). While survival estimates were better for investigation than symptomatic patients, these differences were not significant. CONCLUSION Many operable lung cancer patients are diagnosed incidentally, highlighting the difficulty of symptom-based approaches to diagnosing early stage disease. Longer than recommended secondary care interval suggests the need for improvements in care pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria White
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.,Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Bergin
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robert J Thomas
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Health and Human Services Victoria, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kathryn Whitfield
- Department of Health and Human Services Victoria, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Weller
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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14
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Venchiarutti RL, Clark JR, Palme CE, Shakespare TP, Hill J, Tahir ARM, Dwyer P, Young JM. Influence of remoteness of residence on timeliness of diagnosis and treatment of oral cavity and oropharynx cancer: A retrospective cohort study. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2020; 64:261-270. [PMID: 32037663 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Geographic disparities in head and neck cancer (HNC) outcomes in Australia may be mediated by timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. This retrospective cohort study examines geographic variations in survival and time intervals leading up to treatment for HNC at two tertiary referral centres in New South Wales. METHODS Eligible patients were NSW residents aged ≥18 years, diagnosed with primary oropharynx or oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) between 01 July 2008 and 30 June 2013, and treated with curative intent. Main outcomes were times from diagnosis to treatment and from surgery to post-operative radiotherapy and overall survival. Differences based on remoteness of residence (regional/remote or metropolitan) were assessed. RESULTS A total of 224 patients were eligible. Median time from symptom onset to treatment was longer for regional/remote patients with oropharynx SCC (4.7 vs. 3.8 months, P = 0.044) and oral cavity SCC (6.4 vs. 3.3 months, P = 0.003). Median time from diagnosis to treatment was longer for regional/remote patients with oropharyngeal SCC (47 days vs. 36 days, P = 0.003). Time from surgery to adjuvant radiotherapy was longer among regional/remote patients with oral cavity SCC (66 vs. 42 days, P = 0.001). Overall survival did not differ based on remoteness. CONCLUSION Regional/remote HNC patients experienced longer times to diagnosis and treatment, and regardless of remoteness of residence, fewer than half of patients were treated within guideline recommended timeframes. Despite this non-adherence to guidelines, there were no differences in survival outcomes among this cohort. However, the impact of not meeting guidelines on patient outcomes other than survival warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Venchiarutti
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan R Clark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,RPA Institute of Academic Surgery, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Head and Neck Cancer Institute, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carsten E Palme
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,RPA Institute of Academic Surgery, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Head and Neck Cancer Institute, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas P Shakespare
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jacques Hill
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdul Rahim Mohd Tahir
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patrick Dwyer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Northern NSW Cancer Institute, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane M Young
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,RPA Institute of Academic Surgery, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Coxon D, Campbell C, Walter FM, Scott SE, Neal RD, Vedsted P, Emery J, Rubin G, Hamilton W, Weller D. The Aarhus statement on cancer diagnostic research: turning recommendations into new survey instruments. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:677. [PMID: 30176861 PMCID: PMC6174328 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3476-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over recent years there has been a growth in cancer early diagnosis (ED) research, which requires valid measurement of routes to diagnosis and diagnostic intervals. The Aarhus Statement, published in 2012, provided methodological guidance to generate valid data on these key pre-diagnostic measures. However, there is still a wide variety of measuring instruments of varying quality in published research. In this paper we test comprehension of self-completion ED questionnaire items, based on Aarhus Statement guidance, and seek input from patients, GPs and ED researchers to refine these questions. METHODS We used personal interviews and consensus approaches to generate draft ED questionnaire items, then a combination of focus groups and telephone interviews to test comprehension and obtain feedback. A framework analysis approach was used, to identify themes and potential refinements to the items. RESULTS We found that many of the questionnaire items still prompted uncertainty in respondents, in both routes to diagnosis and diagnostic interval measurement. Uncertainty was greatest in the context of multiple or vague symptoms, and potentially ambiguous time-points (such as 'date of referral'). CONCLUSIONS There are limits on the validity of self-completion questionnaire responses, and refinements to the wording of questions may not be able to completely overcome these limitations. It's important that ED researchers use the best identifiable measuring instruments, but accommodate inevitable uncertainty in the interpretation of their results. Every effort should be made to increase clarity of questions and responses, and use of two or more data sources should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Coxon
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9DX, UK
| | - Christine Campbell
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9DX, UK
| | - Fiona M Walter
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Richard D Neal
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Peter Vedsted
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jon Emery
- General Practice and Primary Care Academic Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Greg Rubin
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
| | - William Hamilton
- Primary Care Diagnostics, Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, Exeter, UK
| | - David Weller
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9DX, UK.
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16
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Salguero DA, Barletta PA, Sierraalta W. Severe abdominal pain and diarrhea - unusual multiple myeloma presentation with a severe prognosis: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2018; 12:70. [PMID: 29549883 PMCID: PMC5857313 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-018-1598-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple myeloma is a hematologic disease with high mortality rates all over the world. The diagnosis has always been challenging since the first case was reported in 1844. For that reason the diagnostic criteria have evolved over years to include the features of the disease more comprehensively. Unusual presentations are infrequent and a diagnostic challenge. For this reason we report this rare case in which diarrhea and abdominal pain were the initial presenting symptoms of multiple myeloma with a plasmacytoma. CASE PRESENTATION An 87-year-old Hispanic man with a past medical history of hypertension, diabetes, and constipation, presented to an emergency department complaining of severe generalized abdominal pain and profuse diarrhea for 3 days. A physical examination revealed generalized pallor and dehydration but no signs of abdominal peritoneal irritation. Laboratory tests revealed neutrophilia and an elevated total protein. He received intravenously administered fluids and antibiotics. His abdominal pain became localized in the infraumbilical area and a small mass was palpated on the right lower quadrant on subsequent examination. An abdominal computed tomography scan showed a tumor lesion surrounded by fluid collection and a computed tomography-guided biopsy of the lesion confirmed it to be a plasmacytoma. A bone marrow biopsy revealed plasmatic cell augmentation but his beta-2 microglobulin levels were inconclusive. The diagnosis of multiple myeloma was finally confirmed with urine immunofixation. Bortezomib was initiated to decrease disease progression, but unfortunately 4 days later he developed acute pulmonary edema, had a cardiac arrest, and died. CONCLUSIONS This case illustrates the protean initial manifestations of multiple myeloma and the importance of an accurate diagnosis. Our patient's initial presentation with gastrointestinal complaints is rare and the plasmacytoma location is even rarer, providing a challenging diagnostic problem. Prompt recognition of multiple myeloma is critical to institute appropriate therapy and prevention of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Salguero
- Advance Simulation Center, University of Francisco Marroquin-UFM, 6 avenue zone 10, 01011, Guatemala, Guatemala.
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17
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Emery JD, Gray V, Walter FM, Cheetham S, Croager EJ, Slevin T, Saunders C, Threlfall T, Auret K, Nowak AK, Geelhoed E, Bulsara M, Holman CDJ. The Improving Rural Cancer Outcomes Trial: a cluster-randomised controlled trial of a complex intervention to reduce time to diagnosis in rural cancer patients in Western Australia. Br J Cancer 2017; 117:1459-1469. [PMID: 28926528 PMCID: PMC5680459 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Rural Australians have poorer survival for most common cancers, due partially to later diagnosis. Internationally, several initiatives to improve cancer outcomes have focused on earlier presentation to healthcare and timely diagnosis. We aimed to measure the effect of community-based symptom awareness and general practice-based educational interventions on the time to diagnosis in rural patients presenting with breast, prostate, colorectal or lung cancer in Western Australia. Methods: 2 × 2 factorial cluster randomised controlled trial. Community Intervention: cancer symptom awareness campaign tailored for rural Australians. GP intervention: resource card with symptom risk assessment charts and local cancer referral pathways implemented through multiple academic detailing visits. Trial Area A received the community symptom awareness and Trial Area B acted as the community campaign control region. Within both Trial Areas general practices were randomised to the GP intervention or control. Primary outcome: total diagnostic interval (TDI). Results: 1358 people with incident breast, prostate, colorectal or lung cancer were recruited. There were no significant differences in the median or ln mean TDI at either intervention level (community intervention vs control: median TDI 107.5 vs 92 days; ln mean difference 0.08 95% CI −0.06–0.23 P=0.27; GP intervention vs control: median TDI 97 vs 96.5 days; ln mean difference 0.004 95% CI −0.18–0.19 P=0.99). There were no significant differences in the TDI when analysed by factorial design, tumour group or sub-intervals of the TDI. Conclusions: This is the largest trial to test the effect of community campaign or GP interventions on timeliness of cancer diagnosis. We found no effect of either intervention. This may reflect limited dose of the interventions, or the limited duration of follow-up. Alternatively, these interventions do not have a measurable effect on time to cancer diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon D Emery
- Department of General Practice and The Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Victoria Gray
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Education and Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia, Subiaco, WA, Australia
| | - Fiona M Walter
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,General Practice and Primary Health Care Academic Centre, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shelley Cheetham
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Emma J Croager
- Education & Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia; School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Terry Slevin
- Education & Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia; School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Timothy Threlfall
- Western Australia Cancer Registry, The Department of Health of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kirsten Auret
- Rural Clinical School of Western Australia, The University of Western Australia, Albany, WA, Australia
| | - Anna K Nowak
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Geelhoed
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Max Bulsara
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Freemantle, WA, Australia
| | - C D'Arcy J Holman
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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18
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Tremblay D, Roberge D, Touati N, Maunsell E, Berbiche D. Effects of interdisciplinary teamwork on patient-reported experience of cancer care. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:218. [PMID: 28320372 PMCID: PMC5360056 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2166-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interdisciplinary teamwork (ITW) is deemed necessary for quality cancer care practices. Nevertheless, variation in ITW intensity among cancer teams is understudied, and quantitative evidence of the effect of different ITW intensities among cancer teams on patients’ perceived experience of care is limited. This study aims to compare patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) of cancer outpatients followed by teams characterized by high vs. low ITW intensity. Methods The study is designed as an ex post facto quasi-experimental study. Participants (n = 1379) were recruited in nine outpatient oncology clinics characterized by different ITW intensities. ITW intensities were evaluated using the characteristics of structure (team composition and size) and process (interactions among team members), as per West’s seminal work on team effectiveness. ITW intensity was dichotomized (high vs. low ITW intensity). PREMs were classified and measured using validated scales corresponding to six dimensions: Prompt access to care, Person-centred response, Quality of patient-professional communication, Quality of the care environment, Continuity of care, and Results of care. Dichotomous variables were created for each dimension (positive vs. less positive experience). Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between ITW intensities and the six PREMs dimensions, while controlling for patient and organizational characteristics. PROC GENMOD was used to fit logistic models for categorical variables. Results Outpatients treated by teams characterized by high ITW intensity reported almost four times more positive perceptions of Prompt access to care compared to patients treated by low ITW intensity teams (OR = 3.99; CI = 1.89–8.41). High ITW intensity also positively affected patients’ perceptions of Quality of patient-professional communication (OR = 2.37; CI = 1.25–4.51), Person-centred response (OR = 2.11; CI = 1.05–4.24], and Continuity of care (OR = 2.18; CI = 1.07–4.45). No significant association was found between ITW intensity and perceived Results of care (OR = 1.31; CI = 0.68–2.52) or Quality of the care environment (OR = 0.66; CI = 0.31–1.39). Conclusions This study provides empirical evidence, from the patient’s perspective, that ITW intensity affects some critical aspects of patient-reported quality of care. Future research will allow explaining how and why ITW structure and processes may contribute to positive cancer care experiences. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-017-2166-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Tremblay
- Nursing School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada. .,Charles-Le Moyne Hospital Research Center, Greenfield Park, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Danièle Roberge
- Charles-Le Moyne Hospital Research Center, Greenfield Park, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke (Longueuil Campus), Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nassera Touati
- École nationale d'administration publique, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Maunsell
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Djamal Berbiche
- Charles-Le Moyne Hospital Research Center, Greenfield Park, Quebec, Canada
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Varela-Centelles P, López-Cedrún JL, Fernández-Sanromán J, Seoane-Romero JM, Santos de Melo N, Álvarez-Nóvoa P, Gómez I, Seoane J. Key points and time intervals for early diagnosis in symptomatic oral cancer: a systematic review. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2016; 46:1-10. [PMID: 27751768 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2016.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify key points and time intervals in the patient pathway to the diagnosis of oral cancer, from the detection of a bodily change to the start of treatment. A systematic search of three databases was performed by two researchers independently. Articles reporting original data on patients with symptomatic primary oral or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma that was pathologically confirmed were included. These articles had to include an outcome variable of 'diagnostic delay', 'time interval', or 'waiting time to diagnosis', or report time intervals from first symptom to treatment. Furthermore, the outcome variable had to have a clearly defined start point and end point, with the time measurement presented as a continuous or categorical variable. A total of 1175 reports were identified; 28 articles on oral cancer studies and 13 on oral and oropharyngeal cancer studies were finally included. These papers showed poor quality in terms of questionnaire validation, acknowledgement of biases influencing time-point measurements, and strategies for verification of patient self-reported data. They also showed great heterogeneity. The review findings allowed the definition of key points and time intervals within the Aarhus framework that may better suit the features of the diagnostic process of this neoplasm, particularly when assessing the impact of waiting time to diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Varela-Centelles
- Galician Health Service, EOXI Lugo, Cervo e Monforte, Lugo, Spain; Stomatology Department, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain
| | - J L López-Cedrún
- Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - J Fernández-Sanromán
- Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Povisa Hospital, Vigo (Pontevedra), Spain
| | - J M Seoane-Romero
- Stomatology Department, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain
| | - N Santos de Melo
- Departamento de Odontologia, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário, Asa Norte, Brasília DF, Brazil
| | - P Álvarez-Nóvoa
- Stomatology Department, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain
| | - I Gómez
- Stomatology Department, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain
| | - J Seoane
- Stomatology Department, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain.
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20
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Walter FM, Mills K, Mendonça SC, Abel GA, Basu B, Carroll N, Ballard S, Lancaster J, Hamilton W, Rubin GP, Emery JD. Symptoms and patient factors associated with diagnostic intervals for pancreatic cancer (SYMPTOM pancreatic study): a prospective cohort study. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 1:298-306. [PMID: 28404200 PMCID: PMC6358142 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(16)30079-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer is the tenth most common cancer in the UK; however, outcomes are poor, in part due to late diagnosis. We aimed to identify symptoms and other clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with pancreatic cancer diagnosis and diagnostic intervals. Methods We did this prospective cohort study at seven hospitals in two regions in England. We recruited participants aged 40 years or older who were referred for suspicion of pancreatic cancer. Data were collected by use of a patient questionnaire and primary care and hospital records. Descriptive and regression analyses were done to examine associations between symptoms and patient factors with the total diagnostic interval (time from onset of the first symptom to the date of diagnosis), comprising patient interval (time from first symptom to first presentation) and health system interval (time from first presentation to diagnosis). Findings We recruited 391 participants between Jan 1, 2011, and Dec 31, 2014 (24% response rate). 119 (30%) participants were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer (41 [34%] had metastatic disease), 47 (12%) with other cancers, and 225 (58%) with no cancer. 212 (54%) patients had multiple first symptoms whereas 161 (41%) patients had a solitary first symptom. In this referred population, no initial symptoms were reported more frequently by patients with cancer than by those with no cancer. Several subsequent symptoms predicted pancreatic cancer: jaundice (51 [49%] of 105 patients with pancreatic cancer vs 25 [12%] of 211 patients with no cancer; p<0·0001), fatigue (48/95 [51%] vs 40/155 [26%]; p=0·0001), change in bowel habit (36/87 [41%] vs 28/175 [16%]; p<0·0001), weight loss (55/100 [55%] vs 41/184 [22%]; p<0·0001), and decreased appetite (41/86 [48%] vs 41/156 [26%]; p=0·0011). There was no difference in any interval between patients with pancreatic cancer and those with no cancer (total diagnostic interval: median 117 days [IQR 57–234] vs 131 days [IQR 66–284]; p=0·32; patient interval 18 days [0–37] vs 15 days [1–62]; p=0·22; health system interval 76 days [28–161] vs 79 days [30–156]; p=0·68). Total diagnostic intervals were shorter when jaundice (hazard ratio [HR] 1·38, 95% CI 1·07–1·78; p=0·013) and decreased appetite (1·42, 1·11–1·82; p=0·0058) were reported as symptoms, and longer in patients presenting with indigestion (0·71, 0·56–0·89; p=0·0033), back pain (0·77, 0·59–0·99; p=0·040), diabetes (0·71, 0·52–0·97; p=0·029), and self-reported anxiety or depression, or both (0·67, 0·49–0·91; p=0·011). Health system intervals were likewise longer with indigestion (0·74, 0·58–0·95; p=0·0018), back pain (0·76, 0·58–0·99; p=0·044), diabetes (0·63, 0·45–0·89; p=0·0082), and self-reported anxiety or depression, or both (0·63, 0·46–0·88; p=0·0064), but were shorter with male sex (1·41, 1·1–1·81; p=0·0072) and decreased appetite (1·56, 1·19–2·06; p=0·0015). Weight loss was associated with longer patient intervals (HR 0·69, 95% CI 0·54–0·89; p=0·0047). Interpretation Although we identified no initial symptoms that differentiated people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer from those without pancreatic cancer, key additional symptoms might signal the disease. Health-care professionals should be vigilant to the possibility of pancreatic cancer in patients with evolving gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms, particularly in those with diabetes or mental health comorbidities. Funding National Institute for Health Research and Pancreatic Cancer Action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M Walter
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | | | | | - Gary A Abel
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Bristi Basu
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nick Carroll
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Jon D Emery
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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21
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Walter FM, Emery JD, Mendonca S, Hall N, Morris HC, Mills K, Dobson C, Bankhead C, Johnson M, Abel GA, Rutter MD, Hamilton W, Rubin GP. Symptoms and patient factors associated with longer time to diagnosis for colorectal cancer: results from a prospective cohort study. Br J Cancer 2016; 115:533-41. [PMID: 27490803 PMCID: PMC4997546 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2016.221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The objective of this study is to investigate symptoms, clinical factors and socio-demographic factors associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis and time to diagnosis. Methods: Prospective cohort study of participants referred for suspicion of CRC in two English regions. Data were collected using a patient questionnaire, primary care and hospital records. Descriptive and regression analyses examined associations between symptoms and patient factors with total diagnostic interval (TDI), patient interval (PI), health system interval (HSI) and stage. Results: A total of 2677 (22%) participants responded; after exclusions, 2507 remained. Participants were diagnosed with CRC (6.1%, 56% late stage), other cancers (2.0%) or no cancer (91.9%). Half the cohort had a solitary first symptom (1332, 53.1%); multiple first symptoms were common. In this referred population, rectal bleeding was the only initial symptom more frequent among cancer than non-cancer cases (34.2% vs 23.9%, P=0.004). There was no evidence of differences in TDI, PI or HSI for those with cancer vs non-cancer diagnoses (median TDI CRC 124 vs non-cancer 138 days, P=0.142). First symptoms associated with shorter TDIs were rectal bleeding, change in bowel habit, ‘feeling different' and fatigue/tiredness. Anxiety, depression and gastro-intestinal co-morbidities were associated with longer HSIs and TDIs. Symptom duration-dependent effects were found for rectal bleeding and change in bowel habit. Conclusions: Doctors and patients respond less promptly to some symptoms of CRC than others. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant to the possibility of CRC in patients with relevant symptoms and mental health or gastro-intestinal comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M Walter
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK.,Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jon D Emery
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK.,Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Silvia Mendonca
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - Nicola Hall
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
| | - Helen C Morris
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - Katie Mills
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - Christina Dobson
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
| | - Clare Bankhead
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | | | - Gary A Abel
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - Matthew D Rutter
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK.,University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton on Tees TS19 8PE, UK
| | - William Hamilton
- College House, St Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter EX2 4TE, UK
| | - Greg P Rubin
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
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22
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Provost S, Pineault R, Tousignant P, Roberge D, Tremblay D, Breton M, Benhadj L, Diop M, Fournier M, Brousselle A. Does the Primary Care Experience Influence the Cancer Diagnostic Process? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FAMILY MEDICINE 2015; 2015:176812. [PMID: 26504599 PMCID: PMC4609476 DOI: 10.1155/2015/176812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective. To analyze the impact of patients' experience of care at their usual source of primary care on their choice of point of entry into cancer investigation process, time to diagnosis, and presence of metastatic cancer at time of diagnosis. Method. A questionnaire was administered to 438 patients with cancer (breast, lung, and colorectal) between 2011 and 2013 in four oncology clinics of Quebec (Canada). Multiple regression analyses (logistic and Cox models) were conducted. Results. Among patients with symptoms leading to investigation of cancer (n = 307), 47% used their usual source of primary care as the point of entry for investigation. Greater comprehensiveness of care was associated with the decision to use this source as point of entry (OR = 1.25; CI 90% = 1.06-1.46), as well as with shorter times between first symptoms and investigation (HR = 1.11; p = 0.05), while greater accessibility was associated with shorter times between investigation and diagnosis (HR = 1.13; p < 0.01). Conclusion. Experience of care at the usual source of primary care has a slight influence on the choice of point of entry for cancer investigation and on time to diagnosis. This influence appears to be more related to patients' perceptions of the accessibility and comprehensiveness of their usual source of primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Provost
- Direction de Santé Publique, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 1301 rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, QC, Canada H2L 1M3
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Hôtel-Dieu, Pavillon Masson, 3480 rue Saint-Urbain, Montréal, QC, Canada H4W 1Y1
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, 7101 avenue du Parc, Montréal, QC, Canada H3N 1X9
| | - Raynald Pineault
- Direction de Santé Publique, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 1301 rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, QC, Canada H2L 1M3
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Hôtel-Dieu, Pavillon Masson, 3480 rue Saint-Urbain, Montréal, QC, Canada H4W 1Y1
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, 7101 avenue du Parc, Montréal, QC, Canada H3N 1X9
- Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, 945 avenue Wolfe, Québec, QC, Canada G1V 5B3
| | - Pierre Tousignant
- Direction de Santé Publique, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 1301 rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, QC, Canada H2L 1M3
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Hôtel-Dieu, Pavillon Masson, 3480 rue Saint-Urbain, Montréal, QC, Canada H4W 1Y1
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, 7101 avenue du Parc, Montréal, QC, Canada H3N 1X9
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, 1020 avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 1A2
| | - Danièle Roberge
- Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil, 150 place Charles-LeMoyne, Longueuil, QC, Canada J4K 0A8
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle, 3001 12 avenue, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5H3
| | - Dominique Tremblay
- Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil, 150 place Charles-LeMoyne, Longueuil, QC, Canada J4K 0A8
- École des Sciences Infirmières, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle, 3001 12 avenue, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5H3
| | - Mylaine Breton
- Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil, 150 place Charles-LeMoyne, Longueuil, QC, Canada J4K 0A8
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle, 3001 12 avenue, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5H3
| | - Lynda Benhadj
- Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil, 150 place Charles-LeMoyne, Longueuil, QC, Canada J4K 0A8
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle, 3001 12 avenue, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5H3
| | - Mamadou Diop
- Direction de Santé Publique, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 1301 rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, QC, Canada H2L 1M3
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Hôtel-Dieu, Pavillon Masson, 3480 rue Saint-Urbain, Montréal, QC, Canada H4W 1Y1
| | - Michel Fournier
- Direction de Santé Publique, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 1301 rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, QC, Canada H2L 1M3
| | - Astrid Brousselle
- Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil, 150 place Charles-LeMoyne, Longueuil, QC, Canada J4K 0A8
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon Gérald-Lasalle, 3001 12 avenue, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5H3
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23
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Walter FM, Rubin G, Bankhead C, Morris HC, Hall N, Mills K, Dobson C, Rintoul RC, Hamilton W, Emery J. Symptoms and other factors associated with time to diagnosis and stage of lung cancer: a prospective cohort study. Br J Cancer 2015; 112 Suppl 1:S6-13. [PMID: 25734397 PMCID: PMC4385970 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2015.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This prospective cohort study aimed to identify symptom and patient factors that influence time to lung cancer diagnosis and stage at diagnosis. METHODS Data relating to symptoms were collected from patients upon referral with symptoms suspicious of lung cancer in two English regions; we also examined primary care and hospital records for diagnostic routes and diagnoses. Descriptive and regression analyses were used to investigate associations between symptoms and patient factors with diagnostic intervals and stage. RESULTS Among 963 participants, 15.9% were diagnosed with primary lung cancer, 5.9% with other thoracic malignancies and 78.2% with non-malignant conditions. Only half the cohort had an isolated first symptom (475, 49.3%); synchronous first symptoms were common. Haemoptysis, reported by 21.6% of cases, was the only initial symptom associated with cancer. Diagnostic intervals were shorter for cancer than non-cancer diagnoses (91 vs 124 days, P=0.037) and for late-stage than early-stage cancer (106 vs 168 days, P=0.02). Chest/shoulder pain was the only first symptom with a shorter diagnostic interval for cancer compared with non-cancer diagnoses (P=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Haemoptysis is the strongest symptom predictor of lung cancer but occurs in only a fifth of patients. Programmes for expediting earlier diagnosis need to focus on multiple symptoms and their evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Walter
- 1] Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK [2] General Practice & Primary Care Academic Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - G Rubin
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy & Health, Durham University, Wolfson Building, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
| | - C Bankhead
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - H C Morris
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - N Hall
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy & Health, Durham University, Wolfson Building, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
| | - K Mills
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - C Dobson
- School of Medicine, Pharmacy & Health, Durham University, Wolfson Building, Stockton on Tees TS17 6BH, UK
| | - R C Rintoul
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB23 3RE, UK
| | - W Hamilton
- University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Exeter EX2 4TE, UK
| | - J Emery
- 1] Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK [2] General Practice & Primary Care Academic Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia [3] Department of General Practice, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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24
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Emery JD, Gray V, Walter FM, Cheetham S, Croager EJ, Slevin T, Saunders C, Threlfall T, Auret K, Nowak AK, Geelhoed E, Bulsara M, Holman CDJ. The Improving Rural Cancer Outcomes (IRCO) Trial: a factorial cluster-randomised controlled trial of a complex intervention to reduce time to diagnosis in rural patients with cancer in Western Australia: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e006156. [PMID: 25231496 PMCID: PMC4166137 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While overall survival for most common cancers in Australia is improving, the rural-urban differential has been widening, with significant excess deaths due to lung, colorectal, breast and prostate cancer in regional Australia. Internationally a major focus on understanding variations in cancer outcomes has been later presentation to healthcare and later diagnosis. Approaches to reducing time to diagnosis of symptomatic cancer include public symptom awareness campaigns and interventions in primary care to improve early cancer detection. This paper reports the protocol of a factorial cluster-randomised trial of community and general practice (GP) level interventions to reduce the time to diagnosis of cancer in rural Western Australia (WA). METHODS AND ANALYSIS The community intervention is a symptom awareness campaign tailored for rural Australians delivered through a community engagement model. The GP intervention includes a resource card with symptom risk assessment charts and local referral pathways implemented through multiple academic detailing visits and case studies. Participants are eligible if recently diagnosed with breast, colorectal, lung or prostate cancer who reside in specific regions of rural WA with a planned sample size of 1350. The primary outcome is the Total Diagnostic Interval, defined as the duration from first symptom (or date of cancer screening test) to cancer diagnosis. Secondary outcomes include cancer stage, healthcare utilisation, disease-free status, survival at 2 and 5 years and cost-effectiveness. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval has been granted by the University of Western Australia and from all relevant hospital recruitment sites in WA. RESULTS Results of this trial will be reported in peer-reviewed publications and in conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR). ACTRN12610000872033.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon D Emery
- General Practice and Primary Health Care Academic Centre, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Victoria Gray
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Cancer, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- Education and Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fiona M Walter
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health & Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shelley Cheetham
- School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Cancer, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Emma J Croager
- Education and Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer Control, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Terry Slevin
- Education and Research Division, Cancer Council Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer Control, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- School of Surgery, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tim Threlfall
- The Department of Health of Western Australia, Western Australia Cancer Registry, Australia
| | - Kirsten Auret
- Rural Clinical School of WA, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anna K Nowak
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Geelhoed
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Max Bulsara
- Institute of Health and Rehabilitation Research, Notre Dame University, Freemantle, Australia
| | - C D'Arcy J Holman
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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