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Pujadas Botey A, Watson AJ, Robson PJ. Improving colorectal cancer in Alberta, Canada: a qualitative study of patients and close contacts' perceptions on diagnosis following an emergency department presentation. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:1032. [PMID: 39238031 PMCID: PMC11378599 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is globally the third most prevalent cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In Alberta, Canada, a significant portion of CRC diagnoses occur following emergency department (ED) presentations. Gaps remain in understanding patient's perspectives on CRC diagnosis after an ED visit. The aim of this study was to examine the experiences and perspectives of a group of patients diagnosed with CRC subsequent to an ED visit in Alberta and their close contacts. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth, semi-structured interviews with patients diagnosed with CRC after an ED visit at the Rockyview General Hospital, Calgary, and their close contacts, from November 2022 to June 2023. Interviews focused on symptom recognition, healthcare interactions, and the decision-making process leading to an ED visit. They were conducted in-person or over the phone, and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Eighteen participants (12 patients and 6 close contacts) were interviewed, revealing four main themes: (1) variability in symptom recognition and interpretation; (2) inconsistencies in primary care consultations; (3) factors influencing decision-making leading to an ED visit; and (4) recommendations for expedited diagnosis outside of EDs. CONCLUSION The findings highlight the complexity of the diagnostic journey for CRC patients in Alberta, pointing to significant gaps in symptom recognition and response by patients and healthcare providers. Improved diagnostic protocols and targeted support for healthcare providers, as well as approaches to address systemic delays may help streamline the diagnostic journey. Future research should focus on exploring innovative interventions to address the identified barriers to timely CRC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pujadas Botey
- Cancer Strategic Clinical Network, Alberta Health Services, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 2T9, Canada.
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Ashley J Watson
- Unit 83, Alberta Health Services, Rockyview General Hospital, 7007 14 St SW, Calgary, AB, T2V 1P9, Canada
| | - Paula J Robson
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
- Cancer Strategic Clinical Network, Alberta Health Services, 10030 107 St NW, Edmonton, AB, T5J 3E4, Canada
- Cancer Research & Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta, Alberta Health Services, 10030 107 St NW, Edmonton, AB, T5J 3E4, Canada
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Hiscock J, Law RJ, Brain K, Smits S, Nafees S, Williams NH, Rose J, Lewis R, Roberts JL, Hendry A, Neal RD, Wilkinson C. Hidden systems in primary care cancer detection: an embedded qualitative intervention development study. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:e544-e551. [PMID: 38806209 PMCID: PMC11257065 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2023.0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND UK cancer mortality is worse than in many other high-income countries, partly because of diagnostic delays in primary care. AIM To understand beliefs and behaviours of GPs, and systems of general practice teams, to inform the Think Cancer! intervention development. DESIGN AND SETTING An embedded qualitative study guided by behaviour change models (COM-B [Capability, Opportunity, Motivation - Behaviour] and theoretical domains framework [TDF]) in primary care in Wales, UK. METHOD Twenty qualitative, semi-structured telephone interviews with GPs were undertaken and four face-to-face focus groups held with practice teams. Framework analysis was used and results were mapped to multiple, overlapping components of COM-B and TDF. RESULTS Three themes illustrate complex, multilevel referral considerations facing GPs and practice teams; external influences and constraints; and the role of practice systems and culture. Tensions emerged between individual considerations of GPs (Capability and Motivation) and context-dependent external pressures (Opportunity). Detecting cancer was guided not only by external requirements, but also by motivational factors GPs described as part of their cancer diagnostics process. External influences on the diagnosis process often resulted from the primary-secondary care interface and social pressures. GPs adapted their behaviour to deal with this disconnect. Positive practice culture and supportive practice-based systems ameliorated these tensions and complexity. CONCLUSION By exploring individual GP behaviours together with practice systems and culture we contribute new understanding about how cancer diagnosis operates in primary care and how delays can be improved. We highlight commonly overlooked dynamics and tensions that are experienced by GPs as a tension between individual decision making (Capability and Motivation) and external considerations, such as pressures in secondary care (Opportunity).
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hiscock
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Rebecca-Jane Law
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Kate Brain
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff
| | - Stephanie Smits
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff
| | - Sadia Nafees
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Nefyn H Williams
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool
| | - Jan Rose
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Ruth Lewis
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Jessica L Roberts
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Annie Hendry
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
| | - Richard D Neal
- DISCO (Diagnosis of Symptomatic Cancer Optimally), University of Exeter, Exeter
| | - Clare Wilkinson
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research (NWCPCR), Bangor University, Wrexham
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Wheelwright SJ, Russ S, Mold F, Armes J, Harder H. Symptomatic presentation of cancer in primary care: a scoping review of patients' experiences and needs during the cancer diagnostic pathway. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e076527. [PMID: 38508614 PMCID: PMC10961516 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective was to map the experiences and needs of patients presenting with symptoms of suspected cancer in the primary care interval (from when they first present to primary care to their first appointment or referral to a secondary or tertiary level healthcare facility). DESIGN This was a scoping review. INCLUSION CRITERIA Studies or reports written in English which included primary data on the primary care interval experiences and/or needs of adult patients presenting with new symptoms of suspected cancer were eligible. Studies which only included patients with secondary or recurring cancer, conference abstracts and reviews were excluded. No date limits were applied. METHODS The Joanna Briggs Institute method for Scoping Reviews guided screening, report selection and data extraction. At least two independent reviewers contributed to each stage. Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Embase and Web of Science were searched and several grey literature resources. Relevant quantitative findings were qualitised and integrated with qualitative findings. A thematic analysis was carried out. RESULTS Of the 4855 records identified in the database search, 18 were included in the review, along with 13 identified from other sources. The 31 included studies were published between 2002 and 2023 and most (n=17) were conducted in the UK. Twenty subthemes across four themes (patient experience, interpersonal, healthcare professional (HCP) skills, organisational) were identified. No studies included patient-reported outcome measures. Patients wanted (1) to feel heard and understood by HCPs, (2) a plan to establish what was causing their symptoms, and (3) information about the next stages of the diagnostic process. CONCLUSIONS Scoping review findings can contribute to service planning as the cancer diagnostic pathway for symptomatic presentation of cancer evolves. The effectiveness of this pathway should be evaluated not only in terms of clinical outcomes, but also patient-reported outcomes and experience, along with the perspectives of primary care HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephanie Russ
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Freda Mold
- Department of Health Care Management & Policy, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | - Jo Armes
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | - Helena Harder
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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Stolper E, Schuck UM, Hoekman A, Shvarts E, van Bokhoven ML, Dinant GJ, Van Royen P, van de Wiel MW. How patients in general practice voice and value their gut feelings about health: a qualitative interview study. Br J Gen Pract 2023; 73:e677-e686. [PMID: 37604699 PMCID: PMC10471142 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2022.0427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND GPs consider their gut feelings a valuable tool in clinical reasoning. Research suggests patients' gut feelings may be a useful contribution to that process. Describing these feelings more precisely could improve primary care professionals' (PCPs) recognition of patients' gut feelings and insight into the underlying reasons. These descriptions would also enable a thorough examination of the validity of patients' gut feelings and their contribution to professionals' clinical reasoning. AIM To gather the words and phrases that patients or their relatives use to share their gut feelings with primary care professionals and what they convey and imply. DESIGN AND SETTING Qualitative study of Dutch and Belgian patients visiting an out-of-hours GP service or a GP's office. METHOD Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were carried out with 47 patients. Interviews were coded using a descriptive content analysis in an iterative process until data sufficiency. RESULTS Patients or their relatives expressed their gut feelings by using words relating to trusting or not trusting the situation, or to changes in normal patterns. Their gut feelings are most often felt as a sense of alarm. In general, patients experiencing a sense of alarm, particularly mothers of sick children, were convinced that something was wrong and had often learned to trust their gut feeling. A gut feeling was the main reason to contact a PCP. Patients generally felt that their gut feelings were taken seriously. CONCLUSION The findings of this study provide an insight into how patients and relatives may express their gut feelings about their own or their relative's health and how they share these feelings with healthcare professionals. This may help clinicians improve their recognition of patients' gut feelings, being particularly alert to a patient or relative using phrases that relate to feelings of not trusting a situation, things seeming wrong or different from normal, and experiencing a sense of alarm. Further research should be carried out into the validity of patients' gut feelings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Stolper
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ulricke M Schuck
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Antoinet Hoekman
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Elena Shvarts
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ma Loes van Bokhoven
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Geert J Dinant
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Van Royen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Margje Wj van de Wiel
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Lee M, Park IY, Park M, Tran PK, Cozier YC, Hahm HC. COVID-19-Related Racial Discrimination during Lockdown and Its Impact on Asian American Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6546. [PMID: 37623132 PMCID: PMC10454441 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
During the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian American (AA) women have experienced a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes and racial discrimination, and a majority of studies have quantitatively shown the negative impact of these incidents on Asian Americans' well-being. Our research expands on the existing literature by qualitatively investigating types of COVID-19-related racial discrimination during lockdown and its impacts on changes in emotions, behaviors, well-being, and racial identity development among AA women. This study covered two timepoints (December 2019 to May 2020) and the data were collected using an open-ended survey with 40 AA women. Thematic analysis identified core themes related to types of racial discrimination, emotional and behavioral changes, and racial identity status that emerged due to COVID-19-related racial discrimination experiences. The findings shed light on the long-lasting impacts of racial discrimination on AA women's overall well-being and dynamic development of racial identity. Altogether, our findings underscore the need for systematic forms of advocacy to combat anti-Asian racism and call for solidarity for AA women's well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Lee
- Department of Social Work, College of Community and Public Affairs, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA;
| | - In Young Park
- School of Social Work, Boston College, Boston, MA 02467, USA;
| | - Michael Park
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Phuong Khanh Tran
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Yvette C. Cozier
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
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Lamprell K, Pulido DF, Arnolda G, Easpaig BNG, Tran Y, Owais SS, Liauw W, Braithwaite J. People with early-onset colorectal cancer describe primary care barriers to timely diagnosis: a mixed-methods study of web-based patient reports in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:12. [PMID: 36641420 PMCID: PMC9840343 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-01967-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with early-onset colorectal cancer, under the age of 50, are more likely to experience diagnostic delay and to be diagnosed at later stages of the disease than older people. Advanced stage diagnosis potentially requires invasive therapeutic management at a time of life when these patients are establishing intimate relationships, raising families, building careers and laying foundations for financial stability. Barriers to timely diagnosis at primary care level have been identified but the patient perspective has not been investigated. METHODS Personal accounts of cancer care are increasingly accessed as rich sources of patient experience data. This study uses mixed methods, incorporating quantitative content analysis and qualitative thematic analysis, to investigate patients' accounts of early-onset colorectal cancer diagnosis published on prominent bowel cancer support websites in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. RESULTS Patients' perceptions (n = 273) of diagnostic barriers at primary care level were thematically similar across the three countries. Patients perceived that GPs' low suspicion of cancer due to age under 50 contributed to delays. Patients reported that their GPs seemed unaware of early-onset colorectal cancer and that they were not offered screening for colorectal cancer even when 'red flag' symptoms were present. Patients described experiences of inadequate information continuity within GP practices and across primary, specialist and tertiary levels of care, which they perceived contributed to diagnostic delay. Patients also reported tensions with GPs over the patient-centredness of care, describing discord related to symptom seriousness and lack of shared decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Wider dissemination of information about early-onset colorectal cancer at primary care level is imperative given the increasing incidence of the disease, the frequency of diagnostic delay, the rates of late-stage diagnosis and the dissatisfaction with patient experience reported by patients whose diagnosis is delayed. Patient education about diagnostic protocols may help to pre-empt or resolve tensions between GPs' enactment of value-based care and patients' concerns about cancer. The challenges of diagnosing early-onset colorectal cancer are significant and will become more pressing for GPs, who will usually be the first point of access to a health system for this growing patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klay Lamprell
- grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Diana Fajardo Pulido
- grid.41312.350000 0001 1033 6040Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, DC Colombia
| | - Gaston Arnolda
- grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Bróna Nic Giolla Easpaig
- grid.1043.60000 0001 2157 559XCollege of Nursing and Midwifery, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT Australia
| | - Yvonne Tran
- grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Macquarie University Hearing, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW Australia
| | - Syeda Somyyah Owais
- grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Winston Liauw
- grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393St. George Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432St. George Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Jeffrey Braithwaite
- grid.1004.50000 0001 2158 5405Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109 Australia
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Stolper CF, van de Wiel MWJ, van Bokhoven MA, Dinant GJ, Van Royen P. Patients’ gut feelings seem useful in primary care professionals’ decision making. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:178. [PMID: 35858872 PMCID: PMC9301863 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01794-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Family physicians’ diagnostic gut feelings have proved to be valuable. But what about patients’ gut feelings? Research has shown that patients’ gut feelings may contribute to their physicians’ clinical reasoning. Dutch medical tribunals consider patients’ worry useful for doctors’ diagnostic process. However, how general practitioners and other primary care professionals recognize gut feelings of patients and deal with them in their decision making is yet unclear. We aim to explore how primary care professionals perceive patients’ gut feelings and use this information in their decision-making. Methods We interviewed 30 Dutch and Belgian primary care professionals, exploring how they recognize and value patients’ gut feelings. We coded all interviews using a descriptive content analysis in an iterative process. Data sufficiency was achieved. Results Primary care professionals acknowledged gut feelings in their patients, and most participants found them a useful source of information. Patients’ gut feelings might alert them to possible hidden problems and might provide quicker insight into patients’ perceptions. Primary care professionals listed a whole series of wordings relating to trusting or distrusting the situation or to any changes in normal patterns. A patient’s gut feeling was often a reason for the professionals to explore patients’ worries and to reconsider their own clinical reasoning. Conclusions Primary care professionals regularly considered patients’ gut feelings useful, as they might contribute to their clinical reasoning and to a deeper understanding of the patient’s problem. The next step could be to ask patients themselves about their gut feelings and explore their diagnostic value.
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Hesso I, Kayyali R, Charalambous A, Lavdaniti M, Stalika E, Lelegianni M, Nabhani-Gebara S. Experiences of cancer survivors in Europe: Has anything changed? Can artificial intelligence offer a solution? Front Oncol 2022; 12:888938. [PMID: 36185207 PMCID: PMC9515410 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.888938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cancer is a major global health issue. Despite technological advancements in oncology, challenges remain in many aspects related to cancer management. This study constitutes one part of the user requirement definition of INCISIVE EU H2020 project, which has been designed to explore the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI) based technologies in cancer imaging. The study aimed to explore cancer survivors’ experiences of cancer care in five European countries. Methods A qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews was conducted. A purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit participants across the five validation countries of INCISIVE project: Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Italy, and Serbia. Forty cancer survivors were interviewed between November 2020 and March 2021. Data was analysed thematically using the framework approach and coded using NVivo12 software. Results The analysis yielded several gaps within the cancer care pathway which reflected on the participants experiences. Five key themes were revealed; (1) perceived challenges during the cancer journey, (2) the importance of accurate and prompt diagnosis, (3) perceived need for improving cancer diagnosis, (4) absence of well-established/designated support services within the pathway and (5) suggestions to improve cancer care pathway. Conclusion Cancer survivors experienced significant burdens pertaining to cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our findings underscored some main gaps within the cancer care pathway which contributed to the challenges articulated by the participants including lack of resources and delays in diagnostic and treatment intervals. Additionally, several suggestions were provided by the cancer survivors which could be considered towards the improvement of the current state of care, some of which can be optimised using new technologies involving AI such as the one proposed by INCISIVE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Hesso
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom
| | - Reem Kayyali
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maria Lavdaniti
- Nursing Department, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evangelia Stalika
- Nursing Department, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
- School of medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Lelegianni
- School of medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Shereen Nabhani-Gebara
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Shereen Nabhani-Gebara,
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Blackmore T, Chepulis L, Rawiri K, Kidd J, Stokes T, Firth M, Elwood M, Weller D, Emery J, Lawrenson R. Patient-reported diagnostic intervals to colorectal cancer diagnosis in the Midland region of New Zealand: a prospective cohort study. Fam Pract 2022; 39:639-647. [PMID: 34871389 PMCID: PMC9295611 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmab155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES New Zealand (NZ) has high rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) but low rates of early detection. The majority of CRC is diagnosed through general practice, where lengthy diagnostic intervals are common. We investigated factors contributing to diagnostic delay in a cohort of patients newly diagnosed with CRC. METHODS Patients were recruited from the Midland region and interviewed about their diagnostic experience using a questionnaire based on a modified Model of Pathways to Treatment framework and SYMPTOM questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the population characteristics. Chi-square analysis and logistic regression were used to analyse factors influencing diagnostic intervals. RESULTS Data from 176 patients were analysed, of which 65 (36.9%) experienced a general practitioner (GP) diagnostic interval of >120 days and 96 (54.5%) experienced a total diagnostic interval (TDI) > 120 days. Patients reporting rectal bleeding were less likely to experience a long TDI (odds ratio [OR] 0.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14-0.78) and appraisal/help-seeking interval (OR, 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06-0.59). Patients <60 were more likely to report a longer appraisal/help-seeking interval (OR, 3.32, 95% CI: 1.17-9.46). Female (OR, 2.19, 95% CI: 1.08-4.44) and Māori patients (OR, 3.18, 95% CI: 1.04-9.78) were more likely to experience a long GP diagnostic interval. CONCLUSION NZ patients with CRC can experience long diagnostic intervals, attributed to patient and health system factors. Young patients, Māori, females, and patients experiencing change of bowel habit may be at particular risk. We need to increase symptom awareness of CRC for patients and GPs. Concentrated efforts are needed to ensure equity for Māori in access to screening, diagnostics, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Blackmore
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Lynne Chepulis
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Keenan Rawiri
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Jacquie Kidd
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tim Stokes
- Department of General Practice and Rural Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Melissa Firth
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Mark Elwood
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David Weller
- Centre for Population Health Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Jon Emery
- Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ross Lawrenson
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Jones D, Di Martino E, Bradley SH, Essang B, Hemphill S, Wright JM, Renzi C, Surr C, Clegg A, Neal R. Factors influencing symptom appraisal and help-seeking of older adults with possible cancer: a mixed-methods systematic review. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:BJGP.2021.0655. [PMID: 35995576 PMCID: PMC9423047 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0655] [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: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cancer burden falls predominantly on older (≥65 years) adults. Prompt presentation to primary care with cancer symptoms could result in earlier diagnosis. However, patient symptom appraisal and help-seeking decisions involving cancer symptoms are complex and may be further complicated in older adults. AIM To explore the effect of older age on patients' appraisal of possible cancer symptoms and their decision to seek help for these symptoms. DESIGN AND SETTING Mixed-methods systematic review. METHOD MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, Web of Science Core Collection, ASSIA, the ISRCTN registry, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence were searched for studies on symptom appraisal and help-seeking decisions for cancer symptoms by adults aged ≥65 years. Studies were analysed using thematic synthesis and according to the Synthesis Without Meta-Analysis guidelines. RESULTS Eighty studies were included with a total of 32 995 participants. Studies suggested a possible association between increasing age and prolonged symptom appraisal interval. Reduced knowledge of cancer symptoms and differences in symptom interpretation may contribute to this prolonged interval. In contrast, in the current study a possible association was found between increasing age and prompt help-seeking. Themes affecting help-seeking in older adults included the influence of family and carers, competing priorities, fear, embarrassment, fatalism, comorbidities, a desire to avoid doctors, a perceived need to not waste doctors' time, and patient self-management of symptoms. CONCLUSION This review suggests that increasing age is associated with delayed cancer symptom appraisal. When symptoms are recognised as potentially serious, increasing age was associated with prompt help-seeking although other factors could prolong this. Policymakers, charities, and GPs should aim to ensure older adults are able to recognise potential symptoms of cancer and seek help promptly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jones
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | | | | | - Blessing Essang
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | - Scott Hemphill
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | - Judy M Wright
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | | | | | - Andrew Clegg
- Academic Unit for Ageing & Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds
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Smith CF, Kristensen BM, Andersen RS, Ziebland S, Nicholson BD. Building the case for the use of gut feelings in cancer referrals: perspectives of patients referred to a non-specific symptoms pathway. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:e43-e50. [PMID: 34844921 PMCID: PMC8714524 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0275] [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: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut feelings may be useful when dealing with uncertainty, which is ubiquitous in primary care. Both patients and GPs experience this uncertainty but patients' views on gut feelings in the consultation have not been explored. AIM To explore patients' perceptions of gut feelings in decision making, and to compare these perceptions with those of GPs. DESIGN AND SETTING Qualitative interviews with 21 patients in Oxfordshire, UK. METHOD Patients whose referral to a cancer pathway was based on their GP's gut feeling were invited to participate. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from November 2019 to January 2020, face to face or over the telephone. Data were analysed with a thematic analysis and mind-mapping approach. RESULTS Some patients described experiencing gut feelings about their own health but often their willingness to share this with their GP was dependent on an established doctor-patient relationship. Patients expressed similar perspectives on the use of gut feelings in consultations to those reported by GPs. Patients saw GPs' gut feelings as grounded in their experience and generalist expertise, and part of a process of evidence gathering. Patients suggested that GPs were justified in using gut feelings because of their role in arranging access to investigations, the difficult 'grey area' of presentations, and the time- and resource-limited nature of primary care. When GPs communicated that they had a gut feeling, some saw this as an indication that they were being taken seriously. CONCLUSION Patients accepted that GPs use gut feelings to guide decision making. Future research on this topic should include more diverse samples and address the areas of concern shared by patients and GPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rikke Sand Andersen
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit of General Practice, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sue Ziebland
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Brian D Nicholson
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Jones D, Di Martino E, Bradley SH, Essang B, Hemphill S, Wright JM, Renzi C, Surr C, Clegg A, De Wit N, Neal R. Factors affecting the decision to investigate older adults with potential cancer symptoms: a systematic review. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:e1-e10. [PMID: 34782315 PMCID: PMC8597772 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older age and frailty increase the risk of morbidity and mortality from cancer surgery and intolerance of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The effect of old age on diagnostic intervals is unknown; however, older adults need a balanced approach to the diagnosis and management of cancer symptoms, considering the benefits of early diagnosis, patient preferences, and the likely prognosis of a cancer. AIM To examine the association between older age and diagnostic processes for cancer, and the specific factors that affect diagnosis. DESIGN AND SETTING A systematic literature review. METHOD Electronic databases were searched for studies of patients aged >65 years presenting with cancer symptoms to primary care considering diagnostic decisions. Studies were analysed using thematic synthesis and according to the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis guidelines. RESULTS Data from 54 studies with 230 729 participants were included. The majority of studies suggested an association between increasing age and prolonged diagnostic interval or deferral of a decision to investigate cancer symptoms. Thematic synthesis highlighted three important factors that resulted in uncertainty in decisions involving older adults: presence of frailty, comorbidities, and cognitive impairment. Data suggested patients wished to be involved in decision making, but the presence of cognitive impairment and the need for additional time within a consultation were significant barriers. CONCLUSION This systematic review has highlighted uncertainty in the management of older adults with cancer symptoms. Patients and their family wished to be involved in these decisions. Given the uncertainty regarding optimum management of this group of patients, a shared decision-making approach is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jones
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Erica Di Martino
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Blessing Essang
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Scott Hemphill
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Judy M Wright
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Andrew Clegg
- Academic Unit for Ageing & Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Niek De Wit
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Richard Neal
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Walsh RL, Lofters A, Moineddin R, Krzyzanowska M, Grunfeld E. Primary Care Continuity and Wait Times to Receiving Breast Cancer Chemotherapy: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study Using CanIMPACT Data. Curr Oncol 2021; 28:4786-4804. [PMID: 34898582 PMCID: PMC8628668 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28060405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Wait times to chemotherapy are associated with morbidity and mortality in breast cancer patients; however, it is unclear how primary care physician (PCP) continuity impacts these wait times, or whether this association is different in immigrants, who experience cancer care inequities. We assessed the association between PCP continuity and the contact-to-chemotherapy interval (wait time from when a patient first presents to healthcare to the first day of receiving breast cancer chemotherapy), with a specific look at the immigrant population. (2) Methods: Population-based, retrospective cohort study of women who were diagnosed with stage I–III breast cancer in Ontario who received surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. We used quantile regression at the median and 90th percentile to quantify the effect of PCP continuity on the contact-to-chemotherapy interval, performing a separate analysis on the immigrant population. (3) Results: Among 12,781 breast cancer patients, including 1706 immigrants, the median contact-to-chemotherapy interval (126 days) was 3.21 days shorter (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.47–5.96) in symptom-detected patients with low PCP continuity, 10.68 days shorter (95% CI 5.36–16.00) in symptom-detected patients with no baseline PCP visits and 17.43 days longer (95% CI 0.90–34.76) in screen-detected immigrants with low PCP continuity compared to the same groups with high PCP continuity. (4) Conclusions: Higher PCP continuity was not associated with a change in the contact-to-chemotherapy interval for most of our study population, but was associated with a marginally longer interval in our symptom-detected population and a shorter contact-to-chemotherapy interval in screen-detected immigrants. This highlights the importance of PCP continuity among immigrants with positive screening results. Additionally, having no PCP visits at baseline was associated with a shorter contact-to-chemotherapy interval in symptom-detected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Lin Walsh
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada; (A.L.); (R.M.); (E.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Aisha Lofters
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada; (A.L.); (R.M.); (E.G.)
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Rahim Moineddin
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada; (A.L.); (R.M.); (E.G.)
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Monika Krzyzanowska
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada;
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6, Canada
| | - Eva Grunfeld
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada; (A.L.); (R.M.); (E.G.)
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON M5G 0A3, Canada
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14
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Urgent cancer referrals: how well are they working and can they be improved? Br J Gen Pract 2021; 71:390-391. [PMID: 34446404 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp21x716801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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15
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Difficulties in Accessing Cancer Care in a Small Island State: A Community-Based Pilot Study of Cancer Survivors in Saint Lucia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094770. [PMID: 33947123 PMCID: PMC8124473 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Developing robust systems for cancer care delivery is essential to reduce the high cancer mortality in small island developing states (SIDS). Indigenous data are scarce, but community-based cancer research can inform care in SIDS where formal research capacity is lacking, and we describe the experiences of cancer survivors in Saint Lucia in accessing health services. Purposive and snowball sampling was used to constitute a sample of survivors for interviews. Subjects were interviewed with a questionnaire regarding socio-demographics, clinical characteristics, health services accessed (physicians, tests, treatment), and personal appraisal of experience. We recruited 50 survivors (13 men, 37 women). Only 52% of first presentations were with general practitioners. The mean turnaround for biopsy results in Saint Lucia was three times longer than overseas (p = 0.0013). Approximately half of survivors commenced treatment more than one month following diagnosis (median of 32 days, IQR 19-86 days), and 56% of survivors traveled out-of-country for treatment. Most survivors (60%) paid for care with family/friends support, followed by savings and medical insurance (38% each). In conclusion, cancer survivors in Saint Lucia are faced with complex circumstances, including access-to-care and health consequences. This study can guide future research, and possibly guide practice improvements in the near term.
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Blackmore T, Chepulis L, Keenan R, Kidd J, Stokes T, Weller D, Emery J, Lawrenson R. How do colorectal cancer patients rate their GP: a mixed methods study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:67. [PMID: 33832431 PMCID: PMC8034162 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01427-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New Zealand (NZ) has a high incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) and low rates of early diagnosis. With screening not yet nationwide, the majority of CRC is diagnosed through general practice. A good patient-general practitioner (GP) relationship can facilitate prompt diagnosis, but when there is a breakdown in this relationship, delays can occur. Delayed diagnosis of CRC in NZ receives a disproportionally high number of complaints directed against GPs, suggesting deficits in the patient-GP connection. We aimed to investigate patient-reported confidence and ratings of their GP following the diagnostic process. METHODS This study is a mixed methods analysis of responses to a structured questionnaire and free text comments from patients newly diagnosed with CRC in the Midland region of NZ. A total of 195 patients responded to the structured questionnaire, and 113 patients provided additional free text comments. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the study population and chi square analysis determined the statistical significance of factors possibly linked to delay. Free text comments were analysed using a thematic framework. RESULTS Most participants rated their GP as 'Very good/Good' at communication with patients about their health conditions and involving them in decisions about their care, and 6.7% of participants rated their overall level of confidence and trust in their GP as 'Not at all'. Age, gender, ethnicity and a longer diagnostic interval were associated with lower confidence and trust. Free text comments were grouped in to three themes: 1. GP Interpersonal skills; (communication, listening, taking patient symptoms seriously), 2. Technical competence; (speed of referral, misdiagnoses, lack of physical examination), and 3. Organisation of general practice care; (appointment length, getting an appointment, continuity of care). CONCLUSIONS Māori, females, and younger participants were more likely to report low confidence and trust in their GP. Participants associate a poor diagnostic experience with deficits in the interpersonal and technical skills of their GP, and health system factors within general practice. Short appointment times, access to appointments and poor GP continuity are important components of how patients assess their experience and are particularly important to ensure equal access for Māori patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Blackmore
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
| | - Lynne Chepulis
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Rawiri Keenan
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Jacquie Kidd
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tim Stokes
- Department of General Practice and Rural Health, Dunedin, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Weller
- Centre for Population Health Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Jon Emery
- Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ross Lawrenson
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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17
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Arditi C, Walther D, Gilles I, Lesage S, Griesser AC, Bienvenu C, Eicher M, Peytremann-Bridevaux I. Computer-assisted textual analysis of free-text comments in the Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences (SCAPE) survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1029. [PMID: 33172451 PMCID: PMC7654064 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05873-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patient experience surveys are increasingly conducted in cancer care as they provide important results to consider in future development of cancer care and health policymaking. These surveys usually include closed-ended questions (patient-reported experience measures (PREMs)) and space for free-text comments, but published results are mostly based on PREMs. We aimed to identify the underlying themes of patients’ experiences as shared in their own words in the Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences (SCAPE) survey and compare these themes with those assessed with PREMs to investigate how the textual analysis of free-text comments contributes to the understanding of patients’ experiences of care. Methods SCAPE is a multicenter cross-sectional survey that was conducted between October 2018 and March 2019 in French-speaking parts of Switzerland. Patients were invited to rate their care in 65 closed-ended questions (PREMs) and to add free-text comments regarding their cancer-related experiences at the end of the survey. We conducted computer-assisted textual analysis using the IRaMuTeQ software on the comments provided by 31% (n = 844) of SCAPE survey respondents (n = 2755). Results We identified five main thematic classes, two of which consisting of a detailed description of ‘cancer care pathways’. The remaining three classes were related to ‘medical care’, ‘gratitude and praise’, and the way patients lived with cancer (‘cancer and me’). Further analysis of this last class showed that patients’ comments related to the following themes: ‘initial shock’, ‘loneliness’, ‘understanding and acceptance’, ‘cancer repercussions’, and ‘information and communication’. While closed-ended questions related mainly to factual aspects of experiences of care, free-text comments related primarily to the personal and emotional experiences and consequences of having cancer and receiving care. Conclusions A computer-assisted textual analysis of free-text in our patient survey allowed a time-efficient classification of free-text data that provided insights on the personal experience of living with cancer and additional information on patient experiences that had not been collected with the closed-ended questions, underlining the importance of offering space for comments. Such results can be useful to inform questionnaire development, provide feedback to professional teams, and guide patient-centered initiatives to improve the quality and safety of cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Arditi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Diana Walther
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ingrid Gilles
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Saphir Lesage
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Claude Griesser
- Medical Directorate, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, rue du Bugnon 21, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christine Bienvenu
- Department of Policlinics, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Rue du Bugnon 44, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences (SCAPE) survey steering committee, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Eicher
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 21, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Peytremann-Bridevaux
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Route de la Corniche 10, 1010, Lausanne, Switzerland
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18
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Blackmore T, Norman K, Kidd J, Cassim S, Chepulis L, Keenan R, Firth M, Jackson C, Stokes T, Weller D, Emery J, Lawrenson R. Barriers and facilitators to colorectal cancer diagnosis in New Zealand: a qualitative study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:206. [PMID: 33003999 PMCID: PMC7530960 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01276-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background New Zealand (NZ) has high rates of colorectal cancer but low rates of early diagnosis. Due to a lack of understanding of the pre-diagnostic experience from the patient’s perspective, it is necessary to investigate potential patient and health system factors that contribute to longer diagnostic intervals. Previous qualitative studies have discussed delays using The Model of Pathways to Treatment, but this has not been explored in the NZ context. This study aimed to understand the patient experience and perception of their general practitioner (GP) through the diagnostic process in the Waikato region of NZ. In particular, we sought to investigate potential barriers and facilitators that contribute to longer diagnostic intervals. Methods Ethical approval for this study was granted by the New Zealand Health and Disability Ethics Committee. Twenty-eight participants, diagnosed with colorectal cancer, were interviewed about their experience. Semi-structured interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using The Model of Pathways to Treatment framework (intervals: appraisal, help-seeking, diagnostic). Results Participant appraisal of symptoms was a barrier to prompt diagnosis, particularly if symptoms were normalised, intermittent, or isolated in occurrence. Successful self-management techniques also resulted in delayed help-seeking. However if symptoms worsened, disruption to work and daily routines were important facilitators to seeking a GP consultation. Participants positively appraised GPs if they showed good technical competence and were proactive in investigating symptoms. Negative GP appraisals were associated with a lack of physical examinations and misdiagnosis, and left participants feeling dehumanised during the diagnostic process. However high levels of GP interpersonal competence could override poor technical competence, resulting in an overall positive experience, even if the cancer was diagnosed at an advanced stage. Māori participants often appraised symptoms inclusive of their sociocultural environment and considered the impact of their symptoms in relation to family. Conclusions The findings of this study highlight the importance of tailored colorectal cancer symptom communication in health campaigns, and indicate the significance of the interpersonal competence aspect of GP-patient interactions. These findings suggest that interpersonal competence be overtly displayed in all GP interactions to ensure a higher likelihood of a positive experience for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Blackmore
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
| | - Kimberley Norman
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Jacquie Kidd
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Shemana Cassim
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Lynne Chepulis
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Rawiri Keenan
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Melissa Firth
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | | | - Tim Stokes
- Department of General Practice and Rural Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Weller
- Centre for Population Health Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Jon Emery
- Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ross Lawrenson
- Medical Research Centre, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Earl H, Hiller L, Vallier AL, Loi S, McAdam K, Hughes-Davies L, Rea D, Howe D, Raynes K, Higgins HB, Wilcox M, Plummer C, Mahler-Araujo B, Provenzano E, Chhabra A, Gasson S, Balmer C, Abraham JE, Caldas C, Hall P, Shinkins B, McCabe C, Hulme C, Miles D, Wardley AM, Cameron DA, Dunn JA. Six versus 12 months' adjuvant trastuzumab in patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer: the PERSEPHONE non-inferiority RCT. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-190. [PMID: 32880572 PMCID: PMC7505360 DOI: 10.3310/hta24400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The addition of adjuvant trastuzumab to chemotherapy has significantly improved outcomes for people with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive, early, potentially curable breast cancer. Twelve months' trastuzumab, tested in registration trials, was adopted as standard adjuvant treatment in 2006. Subsequently, similar outcomes were demonstrated using 9 weeks of trastuzumab. Shorter durations were therefore tested for non-inferiority. OBJECTIVES To establish whether or not 6 months' adjuvant trastuzumab is non-inferior to 12 months' in the treatment of HER2-positive early breast cancer using a primary end point of 4-year disease-free survival. DESIGN This was a Phase III randomised controlled non-inferiority trial. SETTING The setting was 152 NHS hospitals. PARTICIPANTS A total of 4088 patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer who it was planned would receive both chemotherapy and trastuzumab took part. INTERVENTION Randomisation (1 : 1) to 6 months' or 12 months' trastuzumab treatment. MAIN OUTCOMES The primary end point was disease-free survival. The secondary end points were overall survival, cost-effectiveness and cardiac function during treatment with trastuzumab. Assuming a 4-year disease-free survival rate of 80% with 12 months' trastuzumab, 4000 patients were required to demonstrate non-inferiority of 6 months' trastuzumab (5% one-sided significance, 85% power), defining the non-inferiority limit as no worse than 3% below the standard arm. Costs and quality-adjusted life-years were estimated using a within-trial analysis and a lifetime decision-analytic model. RESULTS Between 4 October 2007 and 31 July 2015, 2045 patients were randomised to 12 months' trastuzumab and 2043 were randomised to 6 months' trastuzumab. Sixty-nine per cent of patients had ER-positive disease; 90% received anthracyclines (49% with taxanes; 41% without taxanes); 10% received taxanes without anthracyclines; 54% received trastuzumab sequentially after chemotherapy; and 85% received adjuvant chemotherapy (58% were node negative). At 6.1 years' median follow-up, with 389 (10%) deaths and 566 (14%) disease-free survival events, the 4-year disease-free survival rates for the 4088 patients were 89.5% (95% confidence interval 88.1% to 90.8%) in the 6-month group and 90.3% (95% confidence interval 88.9% to 91.5%) in the 12-month group (hazard ratio 1.10, 90% confidence interval 0.96 to 1.26; non-inferiority p = 0.01), demonstrating non-inferiority of 6 months' trastuzumab. Congruent results were found for overall survival (non-inferiority p = 0.0003) and landmark analyses 6 months from starting trastuzumab [non-inferiority p = 0.03 (disease-free-survival) and p = 0.006 (overall survival)]. Six months' trastuzumab resulted in fewer patients reporting adverse events of severe grade [365/1929 (19%) vs. 460/1935 (24%) for 12-month patients; p = 0.0003] or stopping early because of cardiotoxicity [61/1977 (3%) vs. 146/1941 (8%) for 12-month patients; p < 0.0001]. Health economic analysis showed that 6 months' trastuzumab resulted in significantly lower lifetime costs than and similar lifetime quality-adjusted life-years to 12 months' trastuzumab, and thus there is a high probability that 6 months' trastuzumab is cost-effective compared with 12 months' trastuzumab. Patient-reported experiences in the trial highlighted fatigue and aches and pains most frequently. LIMITATIONS The type of chemotherapy and timing of trastuzumab changed during the recruitment phase of the study as standard practice altered. CONCLUSIONS PERSEPHONE demonstrated that, in the treatment of HER2-positive early breast cancer, 6 months' adjuvant trastuzumab is non-inferior to 12 months'. Six months' treatment resulted in significantly less cardiac toxicity and fewer severe adverse events. FUTURE WORK Ongoing translational work investigates patient and tumour genetic determinants of toxicity, and trastuzumab efficacy. An individual patient data meta-analysis with PHARE and other trastuzumab duration trials is planned. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN52968807, EudraCT 2006-007018-39 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00712140. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 40. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Earl
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Breast Cancer Research Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise Hiller
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Anne-Laure Vallier
- Cambridge Clinical Trials Unit - Cancer Theme, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shrushma Loi
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Karen McAdam
- Department of Oncology, North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, UK
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Luke Hughes-Davies
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Daniel Rea
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit (CRCTU), Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Donna Howe
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Kerry Raynes
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Helen B Higgins
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Chris Plummer
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Betania Mahler-Araujo
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elena Provenzano
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anita Chhabra
- Pharmacy, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sophie Gasson
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Claire Balmer
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Jean E Abraham
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Breast Cancer Research Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Breast Cancer Research Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Hall
- Edinburgh University Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Bethany Shinkins
- Academic Unit of Health Economics, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Claire Hulme
- Academic Unit of Health Economics, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Health Economics Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - David Miles
- Medical Oncology, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Northwood, UK
| | - Andrew M Wardley
- NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - David A Cameron
- Edinburgh University Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Janet A Dunn
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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20
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Laurent-Badr Q, Barbe C, Brugel M, Hautefeuille V, Volet J, Grelet S, Desot E, Botsen D, Deguelte S, Pitta A, Abdelli N, Brasseur M, De Mestier L, Neuzillet C, Bouché O. Time intervals to diagnosis and chemotherapy do not influence survival outcome in patients with advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:658-667. [PMID: 32362489 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2020.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of treatment delay on survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains unclear. AIMS This study aimed to assess the prognostic impact of time to diagnosis and chemotherapy in advanced PDAC and factors influencing the time intervals. METHODS advanced PDAC patients receiving chemotherapy in five centers in the decade 2007-2016 were included. Key time points during care pathway from clinical presentation to beginning of chemotherapy were retrospectively collected. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was performed. RESULTS A total of 409 patients were included (mean age 66.1 ± 10.3 years; 250 metastatic (61%); 139 received FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy (34%). The median overall survival (OS) was 7.2 months. The median times from first symptoms and from first specialist visit to the beginning of chemotherapy were respectively 100 days and 47 days. None of time intervals was significantly associated with OS. Significant prognostic factors were FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy (HR 0.6 [0.5-0.8]; P < 0.001), metastasis (HR 1.6 [1.3-2.0]; P = 0.001), WHO PS ≥ 2 (HR 1.6 [1.2-2.1]; P < 0.001) and acute pancreatitis as first symptom (HR 2.9 [1.7-4.9]; P < 0.001). Jaundice shortened time to diagnosis (P < 0.001). Acute pancreatitis (P < 0.001) and diabetes (P = 0.01) increased time to treatment. CONCLUSION Wait times from clinical presentation to beginning of chemotherapy do not influence survival in advanced PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Laurent-Badr
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France.
| | - C Barbe
- Research and Public Health, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - M Brugel
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - V Hautefeuille
- Gastroenterology, Amiens-Picardie University Hospital, France
| | - J Volet
- Gastroenterology, Courlancy-Bezannes Clinic, Bezannes, France
| | - S Grelet
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
| | - E Desot
- Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Godinot, Reims, France
| | - D Botsen
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France; Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie Godinot, Reims, France
| | - S Deguelte
- General, Digestive and Endocrine Surgery, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - A Pitta
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - N Abdelli
- Gastroenterology, Châlons-en-Champagne Hospital, Châlons-en-Champagne, France
| | - M Brasseur
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - L De Mestier
- Gastroenterology and Pancreatology, Beaujon University Hospital, APHP, Clichy, France
| | - C Neuzillet
- Medical Oncology, Curie Institute, Versailles Saint Quentin University, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - O Bouché
- Digestive Oncology, Reims University Hospital, Reims, France
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21
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Mueller J, Davies A, Jay C, Harper S, Todd C. Evaluation of a web-based, tailored intervention to encourage help-seeking for lung cancer symptoms: a randomised controlled trial. Digit Health 2020; 6:2055207620922381. [PMID: 32426153 PMCID: PMC7218332 DOI: 10.1177/2055207620922381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People with lung cancer often wait for several months before presenting symptoms to health services. Some patients report seeking information online to help them appraise symptoms. No research has evaluated whether websites about lung cancer present information in an optimal manner to encourage help-seeking. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of an online, tailored, theory-based intervention in encouraging help-seeking behaviour among people with potential lung cancer symptoms. Methods The intervention consisted of a specialised website which provided tailored information about lung cancer and included a component to address beliefs about help-seeking, based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB-component). Individuals with undiagnosed symptoms were randomised to receive information about lung cancer in a factorial design (tailored/untailored × TPB-component/no TPB-component). Pre and post viewing webpages, participants reported perceived likelihood of seeking help. Data were analysed using robust mixed factorial ANOVA. Results Data from 253 participants (73.9% female) were analysed. No effect for the TPB-component was found (p = 0.16), nor for tailoring (p = 0.27). Self-reported likelihood of seeking help increased significantly from pre to post (p < 0.001), regardless of tailoring and TPB-components. Conclusion Self-reported likelihood of seeking help for potential lung cancer symptoms may increase after viewing information online. This does not appear to be affected by information tailoring and components to address beliefs. However, intentions remained unchanged in the majority of the sample. This suggests further efforts are needed to improve lung cancer websites if they are to be a useful resource for those seeking advice about their symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Mueller
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.,School of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | - Alan Davies
- School of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline Jay
- School of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Simon Harper
- School of Computer Science, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Chris Todd
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK.,Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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22
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Kittrongsiri K, Wanitsuwan W, Prechawittayakul P, Sangroongruangsri S, Cairns J, Chaikledkaew U. Survival analysis of colorectal cancer patients in a Thai hospital-based cancer registry. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:291-300. [PMID: 32148114 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1740087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The study aimed to assess the overall and stage-specific colorectal cancer (CRC) survival and to identify the prognostic factors for survival among Thai patients.Research design and methods: The retrospective data of CRC patients from a university hospital-based cancer registry from 2001 to 2014 were used to estimate five-year overall survival (OS). Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests were used to assess the differences in five-year OS by age at diagnosis, diagnostic period, tumor site, stage at diagnosis and treatment modalities. A multivariate Cox's proportional hazard model was used to identify independent prognostic factors for the OS.Results: A total of 1,507 (48%) colon and 1,648 (52%) rectal cancer patients were included. Five-year OS for CRC patients was 44%. It differed significantly by stage, age group, and treatment received. Stage at diagnosis, age group, diagnostic period, receiving surgical and chemotherapy treatments were prognostic factors for OS.Conclusions: An increasing trend in the number of CRC patients mostly at stage III and IV was found. Our results emphasized that an improvement in CRC survival could be achieved through the adoption of advanced cancer therapies, as well as improved access to quality diagnosis and timely treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kankamon Kittrongsiri
- Social, Economic and Administrative Pharmacy (SEAP) Graduate Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Worawit Wanitsuwan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Paradee Prechawittayakul
- Cancer Information Center, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Sermsiri Sangroongruangsri
- Social and Administrative Pharmacy Division, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - John Cairns
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Usa Chaikledkaew
- Social and Administrative Pharmacy Division, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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23
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Guan Y, Maloney KA, Pollin TI. Patient perspectives on the diagnostic journey to a monogenic diabetes diagnosis: Barriers and facilitators. J Genet Couns 2020; 29:1106-1113. [PMID: 32162750 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Most monogenic diabetes is misdiagnosed as either type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D/T2D). Few studies have examined the diagnostic challenges from the patients' perspective. This qualitative study aimed to investigate patients' journeys to obtaining a diagnosis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) by elucidating the range of factors that can act as barriers and facilitators throughout this process. We recruited participants from the Personalized Diabetes Medicine Program (PDMP) at University of Maryland and used respondent-driven sampling to recruit additional patients. We conducted qualitative phone interviews between October 2016 and June 2017 with nine patients with diagnoses of monogenic diabetes (one HNF4A-MODY, seven GCK-MODY, and one HNF1A-MODY) and one parent of a patient with INS-MODY. Interview data were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed both inductively and deductively using thematic content analysis. All patients were female, with a mean age of 35 (range: 7-67 years). The amount of time these patients were misdiagnosed ranged from a few months to 41 years. We identified barriers and facilitators in three broad themes: (a) patient-related (nature of MODY symptoms, perceived test utility, individual personality); (b) provider-related (provider awareness and knowledge, provider communication); and (c) healthcare system-related (cost of testing, access to knowledgeable providers, patient education, and support resources). The diverse range of barriers and facilitators reiterates the complexity of the MODY diagnostic process. Limited awareness and knowledge of MODY from healthcare professionals and patients themselves account for most diagnostic delays described in this study. Efforts to promote awareness of MODY and expand access to screening and testing may result in quicker diagnosis and ensure the downstream benefits of proper treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Guan
- Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kristin A Maloney
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Toni I Pollin
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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de Lusignan S, Hinton W, Konstantara E, Munro N, Whyte M, Mount J, Feher M. Intensification to injectable therapy in type 2 diabetes: mixed methods study (protocol). BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:284. [PMID: 31053136 PMCID: PMC6499968 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4112-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the UK, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is largely managed in primary care. Delay in the intensification to injectable therapy, a form of clinical inertia, is associated with worse glycaemic control. UK general practice is highly computerised, with care being recorded on computerised medical record systems; this allows for quantitative analysis of clinical care but not of the underpinning decision-making process. The aim of this study is to investigate perceptions of patients and clinicians in primary care on the initiation of injectable therapies in T2D, and the context within which those decisions are made. METHODS This is a mixed methods study, taking a "realist evaluation" approach. The qualitative components comprise focus groups, interviews, and video recordings of simulated surgeries; the quantitative analysis: an overview of participating practices, elements of the video recording, and an online survey. We will recruit primary care clinicians (general practitioners and nurses) and patients from a representative sample of practices within the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) Research and Surveillance Centre (RSC) network. Participants will be patients with T2D, and primary care clinicians. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews will be recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework Analysis. The simulated surgeries will include cases that might be escalated to injectable therapy. The consultation will be reviewed using the Calgary-Cambridge model to assess communication and determination of adherence to national prescribing guidelines. We will conduct multi-channel video recording including screen capture, clinician and patient facial expressions, wide angle view of the consultation, and the computerised medical record screen. This allows annotation and qualitative analysis of the video recordings, and statistical analyses for the quantitative data. We will also conduct an online survey of primary care clinicians' attitudes to, and perceptions of, initiation of injectable therapies, which will be analysed using summary statistics. DISCUSSION Results aim to provide a detailed insight into the dynamic two-way decision-making process underpinning use of injectable therapy for T2D. The study will provide insights into clinical practice and enable the development of training, interventions and guidelines that may facilitate, where appropriate, the intensification to injectable therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon de Lusignan
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK. .,Research and Surveillance Centre (RSC), Royal College of Practitioners (RCGP), 30 Euston Square, London, NW1 2FN, UK.
| | - William Hinton
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK
| | - Emmanouela Konstantara
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK
| | - Neil Munro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK
| | - Martin Whyte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK
| | - Julie Mount
- Real World Evidence, Eli Lilly and Company, Lilly House, Priestly Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9NL, UK
| | - Michael Feher
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, GU2 7XP, UK
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Exploring public attitudes towards the new Faster Diagnosis Standard for cancer: a focus group study with the UK public. Br J Gen Pract 2019; 69:e413-e421. [PMID: 30858334 PMCID: PMC6532807 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp19x702677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Faster Diagnosis Standard (FDS) is to be introduced in England in 2020. This standard is a new policy in which patients should have cancer ruled out or diagnosed within 28 days of referral. Aim To explore public attitudes towards the FDS within the context of their recent referral experiences. Design and setting Four 90-minute focus groups (two in Guildford, two in Bradford). Method Participants aged >50 years without a current cancer diagnosis (N = 29), who had completed certain diagnostic tests, for example, ultrasound, and received results within the last 6 months were recruited. Age, education, and sex were evenly distributed across groups through purposive sampling. Results The largest cause of concern was the waiting process for obtaining test results. Most had experienced swift referral, and it was difficult for participants to understand how the new standard could impact upon time progressing through the system. Responsibility for meeting the standard was also a concern: participants did not see their own behaviours as a form of involvement. The GP’s role was conceptualised by patients as communicating about their referral, establishing patients’ preferences for information, and continued involvement at each stage of the referral process. The standard legitimised chasing for test results, but 28 days was considered too long. Conclusion Patients should be asked what they would like to know about their referral. GPs should be more transparent about the referral process and the potential for a lack of clarity around next steps.
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Weller D, Menon U, Zalounina Falborg A, Jensen H, Barisic A, Knudsen AK, Bergin RJ, Brewster DH, Cairnduff V, Gavin AT, Grunfeld E, Harland E, Lambe M, Law RJ, Lin Y, Malmberg M, Turner D, Neal RD, White V, Harrison S, Reguilon I, Vedsted P. Diagnostic routes and time intervals for patients with colorectal cancer in 10 international jurisdictions; findings from a cross-sectional study from the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership (ICBP). BMJ Open 2018; 8:e023870. [PMID: 30482749 PMCID: PMC6278806 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE International differences in colorectal cancer (CRC) survival and stage at diagnosis have been reported previously. They may be linked to differences in time intervals and routes to diagnosis. The International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership Module 4 (ICBP M4) reports the first international comparison of routes to diagnosis for patients with CRC and the time intervals from symptom onset until the start of treatment. Data came from patients in 10 jurisdictions across six countries (Canada, the UK, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Australia). DESIGN Patients with CRC were identified via cancer registries. Data on symptomatic and screened patients were collected; questionnaire data from patients' primary care physicians and specialists, as well as information from treatment records or databases, supplemented patient data from the questionnaires. Routes to diagnosis and the key time intervals were described, as were between-jurisdiction differences in time intervals, using quantile regression. PARTICIPANTS A total of 14 664 eligible patients with CRC diagnosed between 2013 and 2015 were identified, of which 2866 were included in the analyses. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Interval lengths in days (primary), reported patient symptoms (secondary). RESULTS The main route to diagnosis for patients was symptomatic presentation and the most commonly reported symptom was 'bleeding/blood in stool'. The median intervals between jurisdictions ranged from: 21 to 49 days (patient); 0 to 12 days (primary care); 27 to 76 days (diagnostic); and 77 to 168 days (total, from first symptom to treatment start). Including screen-detected cases did not significantly alter the overall results. CONCLUSION ICBP M4 demonstrates important differences in time intervals between 10 jurisdictions internationally. The differences may justify efforts to reduce intervals in some jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Usha Menon
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit and Instittue of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Henry Jensen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Andriana Barisic
- Prevention and Cancer Control, Cancer Care Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne Kari Knudsen
- European Palliative Care Research Centre (PRC), Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital and Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rebecca J Bergin
- Centre for Behavioral Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David H Brewster
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Scottish Cancer Registry, Information Services Division, NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Victoria Cairnduff
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Anna T Gavin
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Eva Grunfeld
- Health Services Research Program, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Harland
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Registry, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Mats Lambe
- Regional Cancer Center Uppsala and Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rebecca-Jane Law
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor Institute for Health and Medical Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Yulan Lin
- European Palliative Care Research Centre (PRC), Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital and Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Malmberg
- Department of Oncology, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Donna Turner
- Population Oncology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Richard D Neal
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor Institute for Health and Medical Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
- Academic Unit of Primary Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Victoria White
- Centre for Behavioral Research in Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Psychology, Deakin University School of Psychology, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Peter Vedsted
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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27
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Exploring determinants of care-seeking behaviour of oral cancer patients in India: A qualitative content analysis. Cancer Epidemiol 2018; 53:141-148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2018.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cunningham M, Wells M. Qualitative analysis of 6961 free-text comments from the first National Cancer Patient Experience Survey in Scotland. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e015726. [PMID: 28619780 PMCID: PMC5734250 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-015726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyse free-text responses from the first Scottish Cancer Patient Experience Survey (SCPES) to understand patients' experiences of care, identify valued aspects and areas for improvement. DESIGN Inductive thematic analysis of seven free-text comment boxes covering all stages of the cancer experience, from a national cohort survey. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Adult cancer patients diagnosed across all Health Boards in Scotland between July 2013 and March 2014, and who had an inpatient stay or hospital visit between January and September 2014. 2663 respondents (of n=4835 survey respondents) provided 6961 free-text comments. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Positive and negative themes of patients' experiences. Differences in the proportion of positive to negative comments by demographics. METHODS Data were analysed as follows: (1) comments were initially categorised at a high level (eg, positive, negative, miscellaneous, etc); (2) inductive codes were derived and applied to all relevant comments; (3) codes sharing similar meaning were amalgamated into subthemes, and code frequencies were measured; (4) subthemes were mapped into overarching themes; (5) difference in the proportion of positive to negative comments by demographics were analysed using χ2 tests. RESULTS Participants made more positive than negative comments (1:0.78). Analysis highlighted the importance to patients of Feeling that Individual Needs Are Met and Feeling Confident Within the System. Comments also provided insight into how Processes and Structures within the system of care can negatively impact on patients' experience. Particular issues were identified with care experiences in the lead-up to diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS This analysis provides a detailed understanding of patients' cancer care experiences, therefore indicating what aspects matter in those experiences. Although the majority of comments were positive, there were a significant number of negative comments, especially about the lead-up to diagnosis. Comments suggest patients would value greater integration of care from services involved in their treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Wells
- NMAHP Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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We all think we’re going to die. Br J Gen Pract 2017; 67:13. [DOI: 10.3399/bjgp17x688537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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