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Mitchell RJ, Delaney GP, Arnolda G, Liauw W, Lystad RP, Braithwaite J. Survival of patients who had cancer diagnosed through an emergency hospital admission: A retrospective matched case-comparison study in Australia. Cancer Epidemiol 2024; 91:102584. [PMID: 38772062 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2024.102584] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals diagnosed with cancer via emergency admission are likely to have poor outcomes. This study aims to identify cancer diagnosed through an emergency hospital admission and examine predictors associated with mortality within 12-months. METHOD A population-based retrospective 1:1 propensity-matched case-comparison study of people who had an emergency versus a planned hospital admission with a principal diagnosis of cancer during 2013-2020 in New South Wales, Australia using linked hospital, cancer registry and mortality records. Conditional logistic regression examined predictors of mortality at 12-months. RESULTS There were 28,502 matched case-comparisons. Individuals who had an emergency admission were four times more likely to die within 12-months (Odds Ratio (OR) 3.93; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 3.75-4.13) compared to individuals who had a planned admission for cancer. Older individuals, diagnosed with lung (OR 1.89; 95 %CI 1.36-2.63) or digestive organ, excluding colorectal (OR1.78; 95 %CI 1.30-2.43) cancers, where the degree of spread was metastatic (OR 3.61; 95 %CI 2.62-4.50), who had a mental disorder diagnosis (OR 2.08; 95 %CI 1.89-2.30), lived in rural (OR 1.27; 95 %CI 1.17-1.37) or more disadvantaged neighbourhoods had a higher likelihood of death within 12-months following an unplanned admission compared to referent groups. Females (OR 0.87; 95 %CI 0.81-0.93) had an 13 % lower likelihood of mortality within 12-months compared to males. CONCLUSIONS While some emergency cancer admissions are not avoidable, the importance of preventive screening and promotion of help-seeking for early cancer symptoms should not be overlooked as mechanisms to reduce emergency admissions related to cancer and to improve cancer survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Mitchell
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Geoffrey P Delaney
- Maridulu Budyari Gumal - Sydney Partnership for Health, Education, Research and Enterprise (SPHERE), UNSW, Sydney, Australia; Cancer Therapy Centre, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation, South-Western Sydney Clinical School, UNSW, Sydney, Australia; University of New South Wales School of Clinical Medicine, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gaston Arnolda
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Winston Liauw
- University of New South Wales School of Clinical Medicine, Sydney, Australia; Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Kogarah, Australia
| | - Reidar P Lystad
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Braithwaite
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Bosch X, Montori-Palacin E, Gomes TM, Naval-Álvarez J, Moreno P, López-Soto A. Clinical characterisation of patients diagnosed with cancer following emergency self-referral. Cancer Epidemiol 2024; 92:102609. [PMID: 38991388 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2024.102609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite their frequency and potential impact on prognosis, cancers diagnosed via self-referral to the emergency department are poorly documented. We conducted a detailed analysis of cancer patients diagnosed following emergency self-referral and compared them with those diagnosed following emergency referral from primary care. Given the challenges associated with measuring intervals in the emergency self-referral pathway, we also aimed to provide a definition of the diagnostic interval for these cancers. METHODS A retrospective observational analysis was performed on patients diagnosed with 13 cancers, either following emergency self-referral or emergency referral from primary care. We analysed demographics, tumour stage, clinical data (including 28 presenting symptoms categorised by body systems), and diagnostic intervals by cancer site, then testing for differences between pathways. RESULTS Out of 3624 patients, 37 % were diagnosed following emergency self-referral and 63 % via emergency referral from primary care. Emergency self-referrals were associated with a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with cancers manifesting with localising symptoms (e.g., breast and endometrial cancer), whereas the likelihood of being diagnosed with cancers featuring nonspecific symptoms and abdominal pain (e.g., pancreatic and ovarian cancer) was higher among patients referred from primary care. Diagnostic intervals in self-referred patients were half as long as those in patients referred from primary care, with most significant differences for pancreatic cancer (28 [95 % CI -34 to -23] days shorter, respectively). CONCLUSION These findings enrich the best available evidence on cancer diagnosis through emergency self-referral and showed that, compared with the emergency referral pathway from primary care, these patients had a significantly increased likelihood of presenting with symptoms that are strongly predictive of cancer. Since the starting point for the diagnostic interval in these patients is their emergency presentation, comparing it with that of those referred from primary care as an emergency is likely to result in biased data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Bosch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), Villarroel 170, Barcelona 08036-Spain.
| | - Elisabet Montori-Palacin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), Villarroel 170, Barcelona 08036-Spain
| | | | - José Naval-Álvarez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), Villarroel 170, Barcelona 08036-Spain
| | - Pedro Moreno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), Villarroel 170, Barcelona 08036-Spain
| | - Alfonso López-Soto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), Villarroel 170, Barcelona 08036-Spain
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Round T, Sethuraman L, Ashworth M, Purushotham A. Transforming post pandemic cancer services. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:1233-1238. [PMID: 38491174 PMCID: PMC11014976 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02596-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper outlines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer services in the UK including screening, symptomatic diagnosis, treatment pathways and projections on clinical outcomes as a result of these care disruptions. A restoration of cancer services to pre-pandemic levels is not likely to mitigate this adverse impact, particularly with an ageing population and increased cancer burden. New cancer cases are projected to rise to over 500,000 per year by 2035, with over 4 million people living with and beyond cancer. This paper calls for a strategic transformation to prioritise effort on the basis of available datasets and evidence-in particular, to prioritise cancers where an earlier diagnosis is feasible and clinically useful with a focus on mortality benefit by preventing emergency presentations by harnessing data and analytics. This could be delivered by a focus on underperforming groups/areas to try and reduce inequity, linking near real-time datasets with clinical decision support systems at the primary and secondary care levels, promoting the use of novel technologies to improve patient uptake of services, screening and diagnosis, and finally, upskilling and cross-skilling healthcare workers to expand supply of diagnostic and screening services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Round
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | | | - Mark Ashworth
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Arnie Purushotham
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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Cunningham R, Stanley J, Imlach F, Haitana T, Lockett H, Every-Palmer S, Clark MTR, Lacey C, Telfer K, Peterson D. Cancer diagnosis after emergency presentations in people with mental health and substance use conditions: a national cohort study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:546. [PMID: 38689242 PMCID: PMC11062004 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12292-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer survival and mortality outcomes for people with mental health and substance use conditions (MHSUC) are worse than for people without MHSUC, which may be partly explained by poorer access to timely and appropriate healthcare, from screening and diagnosis through to treatment and follow-up. Access and quality of healthcare can be evaluated by comparing the proportion of people who receive a cancer diagnosis following an acute or emergency hospital admission (emergency presentation) across different population groups: those diagnosed with cancer following an emergency presentation have lower survival. METHODS National mental health service use datasets (2002-2018) were linked to national cancer registry and hospitalisation data (2006-2018), to create a study population of people aged 15 years and older with one of four cancer diagnoses: lung, prostate, breast and colorectal. The exposure group included people with a history of mental health/addiction service contact within the five years before cancer diagnosis, with a subgroup of people with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or psychotic disorders. Marginal standardised rates were used to compare emergency presentations (hospital admission within 30 days of cancer diagnosis) in the exposure and comparison groups, adjusted for age, gender (for lung and colorectal cancers), ethnicity, area deprivation and stage at diagnosis. RESULTS For all four cancers, the rates of emergency presentation in the fully adjusted models were significantly higher in people with a history of mental health/addiction service use than people without (lung cancer, RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.13, 1.24; prostate cancer RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.44, 1.93; breast cancer RR 1.42, 95% CI 1.14, 1.69; colorectal cancer 1.31, 95% CI 1.22, 1.39). Rates were substantially higher in those with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders. CONCLUSIONS Implementing pathways for earlier detection and diagnosis of cancers in people with MHSUC could reduce the rates of emergency presentation, with improved cancer survival outcomes. All health services, including cancer screening programmes, primary and secondary care, have a responsibility to ensure equitable access to healthcare for people with MHSUC.
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Khalaf N, Ali B, Liu Y, Kramer JR, El-Serag H, Kanwal F, Singh H. Emergency Presentations Predict Worse Outcomes Among Patients with Pancreatic Cancer. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:603-614. [PMID: 38103105 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08207-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency presentation (EP) of cancer, a new cancer diagnosis made following an emergency department (ED) visit, is associated with worse patient outcomes and greater organizational stress on healthcare systems. Pancreatic cancer has the highest rate of EPs among European studies but remains understudied in the U.S. AIMS To evaluate the association between pancreatic cancer EPs and cancer stage, treatment, and survival. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study among patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosed from 2007 to 2019 at a tertiary-care Veterans Affairs medical center. Electronic health records were reviewed to identify EP cases, defined as a new pancreatic cancer diagnosis made within 30 days of an ED visit where cancer was suspected. We used multivariate logistic regression models and Cox proportional hazards models to examine the associations between EPs and cancer stage, treatment, and survival. RESULTS Of 243 pancreatic cancer patients, 66.7% had EPs. There was no difference in stage by EP status. However, patients diagnosed through EPs were 72% less likely to receive cancer treatment compared to non-emergency presenters (adjusted OR 0.28; 95% CI 0.13-0.57). Patients with EPs also had a 73% higher mortality risk (adjusted HR 1.73; 95% CI 1.29-2.34). This difference in mortality remained statistically significant after adjusting for cancer stage and receipt of cancer treatment (adjusted HR 1.47; 95% CI 1.09-1.99). CONCLUSIONS Pancreatic cancer EPs are common and independently associated with lower treatment rates and survival. Enhanced understanding of process breakdowns that lead to EPs can help identify care gaps and inform future quality improvement efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Khalaf
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd. MS:111-D, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Basim Ali
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yan Liu
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd. MS:111-D, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer R Kramer
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd. MS:111-D, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hashem El-Serag
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd. MS:111-D, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hardeep Singh
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd. MS:111-D, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Whitfield E, White B, Denaxas S, Barclay ME, Renzi C, Lyratzopoulos G. A taxonomy of early diagnosis research to guide study design and funding prioritisation. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1527-1534. [PMID: 37794179 PMCID: PMC10645731 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02450-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers and research funders aiming to improve diagnosis seek to identify if, when, where, and how earlier diagnosis is possible. This has led to the propagation of research studies using a wide range of methodologies and data sources to explore diagnostic processes. Many such studies use electronic health record data and focus on cancer diagnosis. Based on this literature, we propose a taxonomy to guide the design and support the synthesis of early diagnosis research, focusing on five key questions: Do healthcare use patterns suggest earlier diagnosis could be possible? How does the diagnostic process begin? How do patients progress from presentation to diagnosis? How long does the diagnostic process take? Could anything have been done differently to reach the correct diagnosis sooner? We define families of diagnostic research study designs addressing each of these questions and appraise their unique or complementary contributions and limitations. We identify three further questions on relationships between the families and their relevance for examining patient group inequalities, supported with examples from the cancer literature. Although exemplified through cancer as a disease model, we recognise the framework is also applicable to non-neoplastic disease. The proposed framework can guide future study design and research funding prioritisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Whitfield
- ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL (University College London), 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
- Institute of Health Informatics, UCL, London, UK.
| | - Becky White
- ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL (University College London), 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Spiros Denaxas
- Institute of Health Informatics, UCL, London, UK
- British Heart Foundation Data Science Centre, London, UK
- Health Data Research UK, London, UK
- UCL Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Matthew E Barclay
- ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL (University College London), 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Cristina Renzi
- ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL (University College London), 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL (University College London), 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
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Bosch X, Montori-Palacin E, Calvo J, Carbonell I, Naval-Álvarez J, Moreno P, López-Soto A. Time intervals and previous primary care consultations in the pathway to emergency cancer diagnosis. Cancer Epidemiol 2023; 86:102445. [PMID: 37651939 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2023.102445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Time intervals and number of prior consultations in primary care (PC) are recognised metrics of diagnostic timeliness of cancer and are interrelated. However, whether and how the two measures correlate with each other in the emergency diagnostic pathway is unknown. We investigated the association between the number of prereferral consultations and the length of intervals from PC presentation to cancer diagnosis following emergency referral to hospital. METHODS Patients were eligible if they first consulted in PC and were diagnosed with cancer following emergency or nonemergency referral to hospital. We analysed for differences in PC and diagnostic intervals and number of consultations between emergency and nonemergency presenters and determined their associations by cancer type. Differences in presenting symptoms and stage at diagnosis between populations and according to number of consultations were also examined. RESULTS There were 796 emergency and 865 nonemergency presenters with comparable sociodemographic and comorbidity data. Correlation analysis in emergency presenters revealed a strong positive association between number of consultations and intervals for seven of 13 different cancers, including cancers characterised by high proportions of > 3 consultations and long intervals (pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancer) and vice versa for others (e.g., endometrial, cervical, or oesophageal cancer). Additionally, emergency presenters with > 3 consultations were more likely than those with 1-2 to report nonspecific symptoms (60 vs. 40%, respectively) and to be diagnosed at a later stage. CONCLUSION System level interventions are needed to reduce unnecessary delays in the emergency diagnostic pathway, particularly in cancer patients with multiple prereferral consultations. The findings also suggest opportunities to reduce the proportion of emergency diagnoses by targeting symptomatic individuals pre-presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Bosch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Elisabet Montori-Palacin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julia Calvo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Carbonell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Naval-Álvarez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Moreno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alfonso López-Soto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínic, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS) and Clínic Foundation for Biomedical Research (FCRB), University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Hamilton W, Mounce L, Abel GA, Dean SG, Campbell JL, Warren FC, Spencer A, Medina-Lara A, Pitt M, Shephard E, Shakespeare M, Fletcher E, Mercer A, Calitri R. Protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial assessing the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Electronic RIsk-assessment for CAncer for patients in general practice (ERICA). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e065232. [PMID: 36940950 PMCID: PMC10030284 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The UK has worse cancer outcomes than most comparable countries, with a large contribution attributed to diagnostic delay. Electronic risk assessment tools (eRATs) have been developed to identify primary care patients with a ≥2% risk of cancer using features recorded in the electronic record. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial in English primary care. Individual general practices will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to intervention (provision of eRATs for six common cancer sites) or to usual care. The primary outcome is cancer stage at diagnosis, dichotomised to stage 1 or 2 (early) or stage 3 or 4 (advanced) for these six cancers, assessed from National Cancer Registry data. Secondary outcomes include stage at diagnosis for a further six cancers without eRATs, use of urgent referral cancer pathways, total practice cancer diagnoses, routes to cancer diagnosis and 30-day and 1-year cancer survival. Economic and process evaluations will be performed along with service delivery modelling. The primary analysis explores the proportion of patients with early-stage cancer at diagnosis. The sample size calculation used an OR of 0.8 for a cancer being diagnosed at an advanced stage in the intervention arm compared with the control arm, equating to an absolute reduction of 4.8% as an incidence-weighted figure across the six cancers. This requires 530 practices overall, with the intervention active from April 2022 for 2 years. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial has approval from London City and East Research Ethics Committee, reference number 19/LO/0615; protocol version 5.0, 9 May 2022. It is sponsored by the University of Exeter. Dissemination will be by journal publication, conferences, use of appropriate social media and direct sharing with cancer policymakers. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN22560297.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willie Hamilton
- Primary Care Diagnostics, University of Exeter, EXETER, GB, UK
| | - Luke Mounce
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Gary A Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), University of Exeter, Exeter, Essex, UK
| | | | | | - Fiona C Warren
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Anne Spencer
- Health Economics, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Martin Pitt
- University of Exeter: Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, Essex, UK
| | | | | | - Emily Fletcher
- Primary Care Research Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, Devon, UK
| | - Adrian Mercer
- Primary Care, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Raff Calitri
- Primary Care, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
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Disparities in the first-ever diagnosed liver cancers between the emergency department and outpatient department in Taiwan: a population-based study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:283. [PMID: 36755232 PMCID: PMC9906857 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15218-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver cancer is ranked fifth in incidence and second in mortality among cancers in Taiwan. Nevertheless, the Taiwan government does not screen for liver cancer in its free cancer screening and preventive health examination service. This study compared the differences in cancer stage and survival between patients who received an initial liver cancer diagnosis in outpatient departments (OPDs) and those who received such a diagnosis in emergency departments (EDs). METHODS This retrospective cohort study used the 2000-2016 National Health Insurance Database to obtain a sample from 2 million Taiwanese residents. To evaluate the effect of the utilization of the adult health examination offered to people aged ≥ 40 years, patients aged ≥ 40 years who received an initial liver cancer diagnosis between 2003 and 2015 were followed up until December 31, 2016. RESULTS In total, 2,881 patients were included in this study. A greater proportion of cancer cases in the OPD group were non-advanced than those in the ED group (75.26% vs. 54.23%). Having stage C or D cancer, having a low monthly salary, and a Charlson comorbidity index score ≥ 8, not having hepatitis B, being divorced, and attending a non-public hospital as the primary care institution were risk factors for initial ED diagnosis. The risk of liver cancer-specific death among the ED group patients was 1.38 times that among the OPD group patients (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14-1.68, P < 0.001). However, the use of health examination did not exert a significant effect on the likelihood of liver cancer diagnosis in an ED (adjusted odds ratio = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.61-1.21, P = 0.381). CONCLUSION Government-subsidized health examinations are insufficient to prevent first-ever diagnosed liver cancers in EDs. Patients with liver cancers diagnosed in EDs had a higher risk of advanced stage and mortality. For early detection and treatment, the government may consider implementing liver cancer screening for high-risk and low-socioeconomic people.
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Aye PS, Win SS, Tin Tin S, Elwood JM. Comparison of Cancer Mortality and Incidence Between New Zealand and Australia and Reflection on Differences in Cancer Care: An Ecological Cross-Sectional Study of 2014-2018. Cancer Control 2023; 30:10732748231152330. [PMID: 37150819 PMCID: PMC10170599 DOI: 10.1177/10732748231152330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite many background similarities, New Zealand showed excess cancer deaths compared to Australia in previous studies. This study extends this comparison using the most recent data of 2014-2018. METHODS This study used publicly available cancer mortality and incidence data of New Zealand Ministry of Health and Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, and resident population data of Statistics New Zealand. Australian cancer mortality and incidence rates were applied to New Zealand population, by site of cancer, year, age and sex, to estimate the expected numbers, which were compared with the New Zealand observed numbers. RESULTS For total cancers in 2014-2018, New Zealand had 780 excess deaths in women (17.1% of the annual total 4549; 95% confidence interval (CI) 15.8-18.4%), and 281 excess deaths in men (5.5% of the annual total 5105; 95% CI 4.3-6.7%) compared to Australia. The excess was contributed by many major cancers including colorectal, melanoma, and stomach cancer in both sexes; lung, uterine, and breast cancer in women, and prostate cancer in men. New Zealand's total cancer incidences were lower than those expected from Australia's in both women and men: average annual difference of 419 cases (-3.6% of the annual total 11 505; 95% CI -4.5 to -2.8%), and 1485 (-11.7% of the annual total 12 669; 95% CI -12.5 to -10.9%), respectively. Comparing time periods, the excesses in total cancer deaths in women were 15.1% in 2000-07, and 17.5% in 1996-1997; and in men 4.7% in 2000-2007 and 5.6% in 1996-1997. The differences by time period were non-significant. CONCLUSION Excess mortality from all cancers combined and several common cancers in New Zealand, compared to Australia, persisted in 2014-2018, being similar to excesses in 2000-2007 and 1996-1997. It cannot be explained by differences in incidence, but may be attributable to various aspects of health systems governance and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyu Sin Aye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Shwe Sin Win
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sandar Tin Tin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J Mark Elwood
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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11
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Rafiq M, Abel G, Renzi C, Lyratzopoulos G. Steroid prescribing in primary care increases prior to Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis: A UK nationwide case-control study. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102284. [PMID: 36370656 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Steroid use is associated with increased risk of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). However, allergic symptoms commonly treated with steroids are also presenting features of HL in some patients, thereby introducing protopathic bias in estimates of aetiological associations. It is therefore important to examine steroid prescribing patterns pre-diagnosis to understand timing of associations and when healthcare use increases before cancer diagnosis to inform future epidemiological study design. METHODS We analysed steroid prescribing in 1232 HL patients and 7392 matched controls using primary care electronic health records (Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), 1987-2016). Using Poisson regression, we calculated monthly steroid prescribing rates for the 24-months preceding HL diagnosis, identifying the inflection point when they start to increase from baseline in cases, comparing rates with synchronous controls, and stratifying by route-of-administration and allergic disease status. RESULTS 46 % of HL patients had a steroid prescription in the 24-months preceding diagnosis compared to 26 % of controls (OR 2.55, 95 %CI 2.25-2.89, p < 0.001). Odds of underlying HL were greatest in patients receiving multiple steroid prescriptions, oral steroids and in patients with a new allergic disease diagnosis. Among HL patients, steroid prescribing rates increased progressively from 7-months pre-diagnosis, doubling from 52 to 111 prescriptions/1000 patients/month. CONCLUSION Steroid prescribing increases during periods leading up to HL diagnosis, suggesting steroid-treated symptoms may be early presenting features of HL. A diagnostic window of appreciable length exists for potential earlier HL diagnosis in some patients; this 7-month 'lag-period' pre-diagnosis should be excluded in studies examining aetiological associations between steroids and HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena Rafiq
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL, London, UK; Centre for Cancer Research and Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Gary Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Cristina Renzi
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL, London, UK; Faculty of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO), Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, UCL, London, UK
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12
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Lash RS, Hong AS, Bell JF, Reed SC, Pettit N. Recognizing the emergency department’s role in oncologic care: a review of the literature on unplanned acute care. EMERGENCY CANCER CARE 2022; 1:6. [PMID: 35844666 PMCID: PMC9200439 DOI: 10.1186/s44201-022-00007-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The global prevalence of cancer is rapidly increasing and will increase the acute care needs of patients with cancer, including emergency department (ED) care. Patients with cancer present to the ED across the cancer care continuum from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life. This article describes the characteristics and determinants of ED visits, as well as challenges in the effort to define preventable ED visits in this population.
Findings
The most recent population-based estimates suggest 4% of all ED visits are cancer-related and roughly two thirds of these ED visits result in hospitalization—a 4-fold higher ED hospitalization rate than the general population. Approximately 44% of cancer patients visit the ED within 1 year of diagnosis, and more often have repeat ED visits within a short time frame, though there is substantial variability across cancer types. Similar patterns of cancer-related ED use are observed internationally across a range of different national payment and health system settings. ED use for patients with cancer likely reflects a complex interaction of individual and contextual factors—including provider behavior, health system characteristics, and health policies—that warrants greater attention in the literature.
Conclusions
Given the amount and complexity of cancer care delivered in the emergency setting, future research is recommended to examine specific symptoms associated with cancer-related ED visits, the contextual determinants of ED use, and definitions of preventable ED use specific to patients with cancer.
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13
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Virgilsen LF, Falborg AZ, Vedsted P, Prior A, Pedersen AF, Jensen H. Unplanned cancer presentation in patients with psychiatric disorders: A nationwide register-based cohort study in Denmark. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102293. [PMID: 36370657 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102293] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Unplanned presentation in the cancer pathway is more common in patients with psychiatric disorders than in patients without. More knowledge about the risk factors for unplanned presentation could help target interventions to ensure earlier diagnosis of cancer in patients with psychiatric disorders. This study aims to estimate the association between patient characteristics (social characteristics and coexisting physical morbidity) and cancer diagnosis following unplanned presentation among cancer patients with psychiatric disorders. We conducted a population-based register study including patients diagnosed with cancer in 2014-2018 and also registered with at least one psychiatric disorder in the included Danish registers (n = 26,005). We used logistic regression to assess patient characteristics associated with an unplanned presentation. Almost one in four symptomatic patients (23.6 %) with pre-existing psychiatric disorders presented unplanned in the cancer trajectory. Unplanned presentation was most common for severe psychiatric disorders, e.g. organic disorders and schizophrenia. Old age, male sex, living alone, low education, physical comorbidity, and non-attendance in primary care were associated with increased odds of unplanned presentation. In conclusion, several characteristics of patients with pre-existing psychiatric disorders were associated with unplanned presentation in the cancer trajectory; for some groups more than 40 % had an unplanned presentation. This information could be used to design targeted interventions for patients with pre-existing psychiatric disorders to ensure earlier diagnosis of cancer in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Vedsted
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus, Bartholins Alle 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Anders Prior
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus, Bartholins Alle 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Anette Fischer Pedersen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus, Bartholins Alle 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Henry Jensen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus, Bartholins Alle 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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14
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Martins T, Abel G, Ukoumunne OC, Mounce LTA, Price S, Lyratzopoulos G, Chinegwundoh F, Hamilton W. Ethnic inequalities in routes to diagnosis of cancer: a population-based UK cohort study. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:863-871. [PMID: 35661833 PMCID: PMC9427836 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01847-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND UK Asian and Black ethnic groups have poorer outcomes for some cancers and are less likely to report a positive care experience than their White counterparts. This study investigated ethnic differences in the route to diagnosis (RTD) to identify areas in patients' cancer journeys where inequalities lie, and targeted intervention might have optimum impact. METHODS We analysed data of 243,825 patients with 10 cancers (2006-2016) from the RTD project linked to primary care data. Crude and adjusted proportions of patients diagnosed via six routes (emergency, elective GP referral, two-week wait (2WW), screen-detected, hospital, and Other routes) were calculated by ethnicity. Adjusted odds ratios (including two-way interactions between cancer and age, sex, IMD, and ethnicity) determined cancer-specific differences in RTD by ethnicity. RESULTS Across the 10 cancers studied, most patients were diagnosed via 2WW (36.4%), elective GP referral (23.2%), emergency (18.2%), hospital routes (10.3%), and screening (8.61%). Patients of Other ethnic group had the highest proportion of diagnosis via the emergency route, followed by White patients. Asian and Black group were more likely to be GP-referred, with the Black and Mixed groups also more likely to follow the 2WW route. However, there were notable cancer-specific differences in the RTD by ethnicity. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that, where inequalities exist, the adverse cancer outcomes among Asian and Black patients are unlikely to be arising solely from a poorer diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanimola Martins
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK.
| | - Gary Abel
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Obioha C Ukoumunne
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South West Peninsula (PenARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Luke T A Mounce
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Sarah Price
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO) Group, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Frank Chinegwundoh
- Barts Health NHS Trust & Department of Health Sciences, University of London, London, UK
| | - William Hamilton
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, College House, St Luke's Campus, Magdalen Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
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15
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Alessy SA, Alhajji M, Rawlinson J, Baker M, Davies EA. Factors influencing cancer patients' experiences of care in the USA, United Kingdom, and Canada: A systematic review. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 47:101405. [PMID: 35497061 PMCID: PMC9046116 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The extent to which individual and structural factors influence cancer patients' reports of their experiences are not yet well understood. We sought to identify which groups of patients consistently report poorer experiences and whether structural care factors might also be associated with better or worse reports. We conducted a systematic review of literature in PubMed and Web of Science with the date of last search as 27th of February 2022 following PRISMA guidelines. We focused on studies from three established population-based surveys datasets and instruments. After screening 303 references, 54 studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, being from an ethnic minority group, having a more deprived socioeconomic status, poorer general or mental health status, being diagnosed with poor prognosis cancers, presenting to care through an emergency route, and having delayed treatment were consistently associated with poorer cancer care experiences. Conversely being diagnosed with earlier stage disease, perceiving communication as effective, positive patient-provider relationships, and receiving treatment with respect were overall associated with better reports of cancer care experiences. Improvement efforts aimed at delivering better experiences of patient-centred care need to take account much more explicitly patients' differing characteristics, prognoses, and trajectories they take through their care journeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh A. Alessy
- Public Health Department, College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Centre for Cancer, Society & Public Health, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Mohammed Alhajji
- Behavioural Insights Unit (Nudge), Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Janette Rawlinson
- Patient representative, National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI), Consumer forum, NCRI CSG (Lung) Subgroup, BTOG Steering Committee, NHSE CEG, UK
| | - Matthew Baker
- Patient representative, National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI), Consumer Involvement Advisory Group, Consumer Forum, UK
| | - Elizabeth A. Davies
- Centre for Cancer, Society & Public Health, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, UK
- Corresponding author.
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16
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McPhail S, Swann R, Johnson SA, Barclay ME, Abd Elkader H, Alvi R, Barisic A, Bucher O, Clark GRC, Creighton N, Danckert B, Denny CA, Donnelly DW, Dowden JJ, Finn N, Fox CR, Fung S, Gavin AT, Gomez Navas E, Habbous S, Han J, Huws DW, Jackson CGCA, Jensen H, Kaposhi B, Kumar SE, Little AL, Lu S, McClure CA, Møller B, Musto G, Nilssen Y, Saint-Jacques N, Sarker S, Te Marvelde L, Thomas RS, Thomas RJS, Thomson CS, Woods RR, Zhang B, Lyratzopoulos G. Risk factors and prognostic implications of diagnosis of cancer within 30 days after an emergency hospital admission (emergency presentation): an International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership (ICBP) population-based study. Lancet Oncol 2022; 23:587-600. [PMID: 35397210 PMCID: PMC9046095 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(22)00127-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greater understanding of international cancer survival differences is needed. We aimed to identify predictors and consequences of cancer diagnosis through emergency presentation in different international jurisdictions in six high-income countries. METHODS Using a federated analysis model, in this cross-sectional population-based study, we analysed cancer registration and linked hospital admissions data from 14 jurisdictions in six countries (Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK), including patients with primary diagnosis of invasive oesophageal, stomach, colon, rectal, liver, pancreatic, lung, or ovarian cancer during study periods from Jan 1, 2012, to Dec 31, 2017. Data were collected on cancer site, age group, sex, year of diagnosis, and stage at diagnosis. Emergency presentation was defined as diagnosis of cancer within 30 days after an emergency hospital admission. Using logistic regression, we examined variables associated with emergency presentation and associations between emergency presentation and short-term mortality. We meta-analysed estimates across jurisdictions and explored jurisdiction-level associations between cancer survival and the percentage of patients diagnosed as emergencies. FINDINGS In 857 068 patients across 14 jurisdictions, considering all of the eight cancer sites together, the percentage of diagnoses through emergency presentation ranged from 24·0% (9165 of 38 212 patients) to 42·5% (12 238 of 28 794 patients). There was consistently large variation in the percentage of emergency presentations by cancer site across jurisdictions. Pancreatic cancer diagnoses had the highest percentage of emergency presentations on average overall (46·1% [30 972 of 67 173 patients]), with the jurisdictional range being 34·1% (1083 of 3172 patients) to 60·4% (1317 of 2182 patients). Rectal cancer had the lowest percentage of emergency presentations on average overall (12·1% [10 051 of 83 325 patients]), with a jurisdictional range of 9·1% (403 of 4438 patients) to 19·8% (643 of 3247 patients). Across the jurisdictions, older age (ie, 75-84 years and 85 years or older, compared with younger patients) and advanced stage at diagnosis compared with non-advanced stage were consistently associated with increased emergency presentation risk, with the percentage of emergency presentations being highest in the oldest age group (85 years or older) for 110 (98%) of 112 jurisdiction-cancer site strata, and in the most advanced (distant spread) stage category for 98 (97%) of 101 jurisdiction-cancer site strata with available information. Across the jurisdictions, and despite heterogeneity in association size (I2=93%), emergency presenters consistently had substantially greater risk of 12-month mortality than non-emergency presenters (odds ratio >1·9 for 112 [100%] of 112 jurisdiction-cancer site strata, with the minimum lower bound of the related 95% CIs being 1·26). There were negative associations between jurisdiction-level percentage of emergency presentations and jurisdiction-level 1-year survival for colon, stomach, lung, liver, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer, with a 10% increase in percentage of emergency presentations in a jurisdiction being associated with a decrease in 1-year net survival of between 2·5% (95% CI 0·28-4·7) and 7·0% (1·2-13·0). INTERPRETATION Internationally, notable proportions of patients with cancer are diagnosed through emergency presentation. Specific types of cancer, older age, and advanced stage at diagnosis are consistently associated with an increased risk of emergency presentation, which strongly predicts worse prognosis and probably contributes to international differences in cancer survival. Monitoring emergency presentations, and identifying and acting on contributing behavioural and health-care factors, is a global priority for cancer control. FUNDING Canadian Partnership Against Cancer; Cancer Council Victoria; Cancer Institute New South Wales; Cancer Research UK; Danish Cancer Society; National Cancer Registry Ireland; The Cancer Society of New Zealand; National Health Service England; Norwegian Cancer Society; Public Health Agency Northern Ireland, on behalf of the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry; the Scottish Government; Western Australia Department of Health; and Wales Cancer Network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean McPhail
- National Disease Registration Service, NHS Digital, Leeds, UK
| | - Ruth Swann
- National Disease Registration Service, NHS Digital, Leeds, UK; Cancer Research UK, London, UK
| | | | - Matthew E Barclay
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care (IEHC), University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Riaz Alvi
- Department of Epidemiology and Performance Measurement, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | - Oliver Bucher
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Registry, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | - Bolette Danckert
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - David W Donnelly
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jeff J Dowden
- Provincial Cancer Care Program, Eastern Health, St John's, NL, Canada
| | - Norah Finn
- Victorian Cancer Registry, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Cancer Support, Treatment and Research, Department of Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Colin R Fox
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Sharon Fung
- Canadian Partnership against Cancer, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anna T Gavin
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Steven Habbous
- Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jihee Han
- Canadian Partnership against Cancer, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dyfed W Huws
- Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit, Public Health Data, Knowledge and Research Directorate, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK; Population Data Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | | | - Henry Jensen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bethany Kaposhi
- Surveillance and Reporting, Advanced Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton
| | - S Eshwar Kumar
- New Brunswick Cancer Network, Department of Health, New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | | | | | - Carol A McClure
- Prince Edward Island Cancer Registry, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | | | - Grace Musto
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Registry, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | - Sabuj Sarker
- Department of Epidemiology and Performance Measurement, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Luc Te Marvelde
- Victorian Cancer Registry, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca S Thomas
- Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit, Public Health Data, Knowledge and Research Directorate, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK; Department of the Dean, Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert J S Thomas
- Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit, Public Health Data, Knowledge and Research Directorate, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK; Department of the Dean, Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Ryan R Woods
- Cancer Control Research, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Bin Zhang
- Health Analytics, Department of Health, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- National Disease Registration Service, NHS Digital, Leeds, UK; Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care (IEHC), University College London, London, UK.
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Nicolaisen A, Lauridsen GB, Haastrup P, Hansen DG, Jarbøl DE. Healthcare practices that increase the quality of care in cancer trajectories from a general practice perspective: a scoping review. Scand J Prim Health Care 2022; 40:11-28. [PMID: 35254205 PMCID: PMC9090364 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2022.2036421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE General practice plays an important role in cancer trajectories, and cancer patients request the continuous involvement of general practice. The objective of this scoping review was to identify healthcare practices that increase the quality of care in cancer trajectories from a general practice perspective. DESIGN, SETTING, AND SUBJECTS A scoping review of the literature published in Danish or English from 2010 to 2020 was conducted. Data was collected using identified keywords and indexed terms in several databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCO CINAHL, Scopus, and ProQuest), contacting key experts, searching through reference lists, and reports from selected health political, research- and interest organizations' websites. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We identified healthcare practices in cancer trajectories that increase quality care. Identified healthcare practices were grouped into four contextual domains and allocated to defined phases in the cancer trajectory. The results are presented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). RESULTS A total of 45 peer-reviewed and six non-peer-reviewed articles and reports were included. Quality of care increases in all phases of the cancer trajectory when GPs listen carefully to the full story and use action plans. After diagnosis, quality of care increases when GPs and practice staff have a proactive care approach, act as interpreters of diagnosis, treatment options, and its consequences, and engage in care coordination with specialists in secondary care involving the patient. CONCLUSION This scoping review identified healthcare practices that increase the quality of care in cancer trajectories from a general practice perspective. The results support general practice in investigating own healthcare practices and identifying possibilities for quality improvement.KEY POINTSIdentified healthcare practices in general practice that increase the quality of care in cancer trajectories:Listen carefully to the full storyUse action plans and time-out-consultationsPlan and provide proactive careAct as an interpreter of diagnosis, treatment options, and its consequences for the patientCoordinate care with specialists, patients, and caregivers with mutual respectIdentified barriers for quality of care in cancer trajectories are:Time constraints in consultationsLimited accessibility for patients and caregiversHealth practices to increase the quality of care should be effective, safe, people-centered, timely, equitable, integrated, and efficient. These distinctions of quality of care, support general practice in investigating and improving quality of care in cancer trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Nicolaisen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
- CONTACT Anne Nicolaisen Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000Odense C, Denmark
| | - Gitte Bruun Lauridsen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Peter Haastrup
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Dorte Gilså Hansen
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
- Center for Shared Decision Making, Lillebaelt Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
- The Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Dorte Ejg Jarbøl
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
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Intra-abdominal cancer risk with abdominal pain: a prospective cohort primary-care study. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:e361-e368. [DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Quantifying cancer risk in primary-care patients reporting abdominal pain would inform diagnostic strategies. Aim: To quantify oesophagogastric, colorectal, liver, pancreatic, ovarian, uterine, kidney and bladder cancer risks associated with newly reported abdominal pain with or without other symptoms, signs or abnormal blood tests (i.e. features) indicative of possible cancer. Design and setting: Observational prospective cohort study using Clinical Practice Research Datalink records with English cancer registry linkage. Methods: Participants (N=125,793) aged ≥40 years had newly reported abdominal pain in primary care during 01/01/2009-31/12/2013. The outcomes were 1-year cumulative incidence of cancer, and the composite 1-year cumulative incidence of cancers with shared additional features, stratified by age and sex. Results: With abdominal pain, overall risk was greater in men and increased with age, reaching 3.4% (95%CI 3.0–3.7%; predominantly colorectal cancer 1.9%, 1.6–2.1%) in men ≥70 years, compared with their expected incidence of 0.88% (0.87%–0.89%). Additional features increased cancer risk; for example, colorectal or pancreatic cancer risk with abdominal pain plus diarrhoea at 60–69 and ≥70, respectively, was 3.1% (1.9–4.9%) and 4.9% (3.7–6.4%), predominantly colorectal cancer (2.2%, 2–3.8% and 3.3%, 2.0–4.9%). Conclusions: Abdominal pain increases intra-abdominal cancer risk nearly fourfold in men aged ≥70, exceeding the 3% threshold warranting investigation. This threshold is surpassed for the over-60s only with additional features. These results help direct appropriate referral and testing strategies for patients based on their demographic profile and reporting features. We suggest non-invasive strategies first, such as faecal immunochemical testing, with safety-netting in a shared decision-making framework.
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A Blockchain-Applied Personal Health Record Application: Development and User Experience. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12041847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to introduce a novel blockchain-applied personal health records (PHR) application and validate its user experience. The system transmits the part corresponding to the patient’s personal information off-chain and prevents data forgery and falsification by storing encrypted data on-chain. Patients may easily trace the opt-in and opt-out history of their consent data and dynamically store the consent system for data exchange on the blockchain. A mixed-method study using a questionnaire, in-depth interviews, and usability evaluation were conducted for 30 participants. The system usability score was 74.0, indicating the high usability of the application. Those who were familiar with blockchain showed confidence in the application, but those unfamiliar wanted their data to be safe using another way. Most of the participants were interested in exchanging and using their medical data and considered security important but those unfamiliar wanted their data to be safe using another way. We found that participants were concerned about data security and considered a blockchain-based PHR as a novel way to store and exchange their medical information securely. Blockchain is not a visible technology. However, a blockchain-applied PHR must be able to win user trust through visualizations, certificates, and system descriptions.
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The Shared Safety Net Action Plan (SSNAP): a co-designed intervention to promote greater involvement of patients to support the timely diagnosis of cancer in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:e581-e591. [PMID: 35379601 PMCID: PMC8999718 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Safety netting in primary care may help diagnose cancer earlier, but it is unclear what the format and content of an acceptable safety-netting intervention would be. This project aimed to co-design a safety-netting intervention with and for primary care patients and staff. Aim This work sought to address how a safety-netting intervention would be implemented in practice; and, if and how a safety-netting intervention would be acceptable to all stakeholders. Design and setting Patient representatives, GPs, and nurse practitioners were invited to a series of co-design workshops. Patients who had and had not received a diagnosis of cancer and primary care practices took part in separate focus groups. Method Three workshops using creative co-design processes developed the format and content of the intervention prototype. The COM-B Framework underpinned five focus groups to establish views on capability, opportunity, and motivation to use the intervention to assist with prototype refinement. Results Workshops and focus groups suggested the intervention format and content should incorporate visual and written communication specifying clear timelines for monitoring symptoms and when to present back; be available in paper and electronic forms linked to existing computer systems; and be able to be delivered within a 10-minute consultation. Intervention use themes included ‘building confidence through partnership’, ‘using familiar and current procedures and systems’, and ‘seeing value’. Conclusion The Shared Safety Net Action Plan (SSNAP) — a safety-netting intervention to assist the timely diagnosis of cancer in primary care, was successfully co-designed with and for patients and primary care staff.
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Bright CJ, Gildea C, Lai J, Elliss-Brookes L, Lyratzopoulos G. Does geodemographic segmentation explain differences in route of cancer diagnosis above and beyond person-level sociodemographic variables? J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 43:797-805. [PMID: 32785586 PMCID: PMC8677448 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency diagnosis of cancer is associated with poorer short-term survival and may reflect delayed help-seeking. Optimal targeting of interventions to raise awareness of cancer symptoms is therefore needed. METHODS We examined the risk of emergency presentation of lung and colorectal cancer (diagnosed in 2016 in England). By cancer site, we used logistic regression (outcome emergency/non-emergency presentation) adjusting for patient-level variables (age, sex, deprivation and ethnicity) with/without adjustment for geodemographic segmentation (Mosaic) group. RESULTS Analysis included 36 194 and 32 984 patients with lung and colorectal cancer. Greater levels of deprivation were strongly associated with greater odds of emergency presentation, even after adjustment for Mosaic group, which nonetheless attenuated associations (odds ratio [OR] most/least deprived group = 1.67 adjusted [model excluding Mosaic], 1.28 adjusted [model including Mosaic], P < 0.001 for both, for colorectal; respective OR values of 1.42 and 1.18 for lung, P < 0.001 for both). Similar findings were observed for increasing age. There was large variation in risk of emergency presentation between Mosaic groups (crude OR for highest/lowest risk group = 2.30, adjusted OR = 1.89, for colorectal; respective values of 1.59 and1.66 for lung). CONCLUSION Variation in risk of emergency presentation in cancer patients can be explained by geodemography, additional to deprivation group and age. The findings support proof of concept for public health interventions targeting all the examined attributes, including geodemography.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Bright
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, Wellington House, London SE1 8UG, UK
| | - C Gildea
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, Wellington House, London SE1 8UG, UK
| | - J Lai
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, Wellington House, London SE1 8UG, UK
| | - L Elliss-Brookes
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, Wellington House, London SE1 8UG, UK
| | - G Lyratzopoulos
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, Wellington House, London SE1 8UG, UK
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care (IEHC), University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK
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Joyce K, Zermanos T, Badrinath P. Factors associated with variation in emergency diagnoses of cancer at general practice level in England. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 43:e593-e600. [PMID: 32888030 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer patients diagnosed following an emergency presentation have poorer outcomes. We explore whether practice characteristics are associated with differences in the proportion of emergency presentations. METHODS Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to investigate the relationships between 2017-18 emergency cancer presentations at practice level in England and access and continuity in primary care, trust in healthcare professionals, 2-week-wait (2WW) referrals, quality and outcomes framework (QOF) achievements and socio-demographic factors (age, gender and deprivation). RESULTS Our analysis using comprehensive nationwide data found that the following practice level factors have significant associations with a lower proportion of emergency diagnosis of cancer: increased trust and confidence in the practice healthcare professionals; higher 2WW referral and conversion rate; higher total practice QOF score and higher satisfaction with appointment times or higher proportion able to see preferred GP. Our results also show that practices in more deprived areas are significantly associated with a higher proportion of emergency diagnoses of cancer. CONCLUSIONS Regional cancer networks should focus their efforts in increasing both the quantity and appropriateness of 2WW referrals from primary care. In addition, primary care clinicians should be supported to undertake high quality consultations, thus building trust with patients and ensuring continuity of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Joyce
- Suffolk County Council and West Suffolk Foundation Trust, Suffolk, IP33 2QZ, UK
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Ceronie B, Hart T, Belete D, Ramani L, Bahra A. Isolated headache is not a reliable indicator for brain cancer: the 2-week wait pathway for suspected CNS malignancies. Clin Med (Lond) 2021; 21:e648-e655. [PMID: 34862227 DOI: 10.7861/clinmed.cm-2021-0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The UK uses the 2-week-wait (2WW) pathway for rapid access to cancer services. It is unclear whether this is effective for brain cancer. METHODS We retrospectively analysed all 2WW referrals for brain cancer between 2009 and 2016 in a district general neurology department. We compared clinical presentations to national guidelines and diagnoses of brain cancer. RESULTS Of the 153 cases analysed, four brain cancers were identified: two glioblastomas and two metastases. Headaches were the most common referral. The end diagnosis was mostly migraine. The highest positive predictive value was for behavioural/personality change (5.3%) and sub-acute neurological deficit (3.2%). There was no significant association between any symptom(s) and brain cancer. CONCLUSION The 2WW pathway is not effective in the diagnosis of brain cancer. Resources are better directed towards clinical research and treatment trials. Headache remains the most common reason for referral although it is not yet a reliable indicator of brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Ceronie
- St George's Hospital, London, UK, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK and Whipps Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | - Thomas Hart
- St George's Hospital, London, UK, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK and Whipps Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | | | | | - Anish Bahra
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK and Whipps Cross Hospital, London, UK
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Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder Status Post-Solid Organ Transplant Presenting to the Emergency Department: Single Institute Experience. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2021; 45:894-903. [PMID: 34347710 DOI: 10.1097/rct.0000000000001212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical, laboratory, imaging, and pathology findings associated with emergency department presentations of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) after solid organ transplant (SOT). METHODS Fifteen patients presenting to a single tertiary care center between 2004 and 2019 with PTLD after SOT were identified from a pathology database. Twelve patients presenting through the emergency department were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, imaging, pathology, treatment, and outcome data were reviewed. RESULTS Among this 12 patient cohort (7 men; mean age, 44.2 years), transplant history included 4 combined kidney/pancreas, 4 kidney, 2 liver, 1 cardiac, and 1 lung. Mean time from transplant to diagnosis was 7.6 years. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder was identified on initial computed tomography scans in 10 of 12 patients. The most common sites for PTLD development were the gastrointestinal tract (4/12) and liver (3/12). Outcomes included resolution of PTLD in 9 of 12 patients, with 3 patients dying within 6 months of diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder is a serious consequence of solid organ transplantation that can present in various locations and with varied symptomatology in the emergency setting. Other posttransplant complications may present similarly including chronic rejection and infection. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder should be considered in SOT patients presenting with worsening abdominal pain or constitutional symptoms, even with normal laboratory workup.
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Describing the potential of non-specific symptoms-based pathways for diagnosing less common cancers. Br J Gen Pract 2021; 71:e846-e853. [PMID: 34097639 PMCID: PMC8463131 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2020.1108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although less common cancers account for over half of all cancer diagnoses in England, their relative scarcity and complex presentation, often with non-specific symptoms, means that patients often experience multiple primary care consultations, longer times to diagnosis and poorer clinical outcomes. An urgent referral pathway for non-specific symptoms, the Multidisciplinary Diagnostic Centre (MDC), may address this problem. AIM To examine the less common cancers identified during the MDC pilots and consider if such an approach improves the diagnosis of these cancers. DESIGN AND SETTING A service evaluation of five MDC pilot projects in England to 31st March 2019. METHOD Data items were collected by pilot sites in near-real time, based mainly on the English cancer outcomes and services dataset, with additional project specific items. Simple descriptive and comparative statistics were used, including chi-squared tests for proportions and t-tests for means where appropriate. RESULTS From 5,134 referrals, 378 cancers were diagnosed, of which 218 (58%) were less common. Over 30 different less common tumour types were diagnosed within this cohort. 23% of MDC patients with less common cancers had ≥3 more GP consultations before referral and, at programme level, a median time of 57 days was recorded from GP urgent referral to treatment for these tumour types. CONCLUSION A non-specific symptomatic referral route diagnoses a broad range of less common cancers, and can support primary care case management for patients with symptoms of possible cancer that do not qualify for a site-specific urgent referral.
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Loveday C, Sud A, Jones ME, Broggio J, Scott S, Gronthound F, Torr B, Garrett A, Nicol DL, Jhanji S, Boyce SA, Williams M, Barry C, Riboli E, Kipps E, McFerran E, Muller DC, Lyratzopoulos G, Lawler M, Abulafi M, Houlston RS, Turnbull C. Prioritisation by FIT to mitigate the impact of delays in the 2-week wait colorectal cancer referral pathway during the COVID-19 pandemic: a UK modelling study. Gut 2021; 70:1053-1060. [PMID: 32855306 PMCID: PMC7447105 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-321650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) prioritisation to mitigate the impact of delays in the colorectal cancer (CRC) urgent diagnostic (2-week-wait (2WW)) pathway consequent from the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN We modelled the reduction in CRC survival and life years lost resultant from per-patient delays of 2-6 months in the 2WW pathway. We stratified by age group, individual-level benefit in CRC survival versus age-specific nosocomial COVID-19-related fatality per referred patient undergoing colonoscopy. We modelled mitigation strategies using thresholds of FIT triage of 2, 10 and 150 µg Hb/g to prioritise 2WW referrals for colonoscopy. To construct the underlying models, we employed 10-year net CRC survival for England 2008-2017, 2WW pathway CRC case and referral volumes and per-day-delay HRs generated from observational studies of diagnosis-to-treatment interval. RESULTS Delay of 2/4/6 months across all 11 266 patients with CRC diagnosed per typical year via the 2WW pathway were estimated to result in 653/1419/2250 attributable deaths and loss of 9214/20 315/32 799 life years. Risk-benefit from urgent investigatory referral is particularly sensitive to nosocomial COVID-19 rates for patients aged >60. Prioritisation out of delay for the 18% of symptomatic referrals with FIT >10 µg Hb/g would avoid 89% of these deaths attributable to presentational/diagnostic delay while reducing immediate requirement for colonoscopy by >80%. CONCLUSIONS Delays in the pathway to CRC diagnosis and treatment have potential to cause significant mortality and loss of life years. FIT triage of symptomatic patients in primary care could streamline access to colonoscopy, reduce delays for true-positive CRC cases and reduce nosocomial COVID-19 mortality in older true-negative 2WW referrals. However, this strategy offers benefit only in short-term rationalisation of limited endoscopy services: the appreciable false-negative rate of FIT in symptomatic patients means most colonoscopies will still be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chey Loveday
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Amit Sud
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Michael E Jones
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - John Broggio
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Stephen Scott
- RM Partners, West London Cancer Alliance, London, UK
| | | | - Beth Torr
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Alice Garrett
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - David L Nicol
- Urology Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Shaman Jhanji
- Department of Anaesthesia, Perioperative Medicine and Critical Care, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Cancer Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Stephen A Boyce
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Matthew Williams
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
- Computational Oncology Group, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Barry
- RM Partners, West London Cancer Alliance, London, UK
| | - Elio Riboli
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Emma Kipps
- RM Partners, West London Cancer Alliance, London, UK
- The Breast Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ethna McFerran
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - David C Muller
- The Breast Unit, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London, UK
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO) Group, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Lawler
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Muti Abulafi
- Colorectal Surgery, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, Croydon, London, UK
| | - Richard S Houlston
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Clare Turnbull
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Ramsay G, Wohlgemut JM, Bekheit M, Watson AJM, Jansen JO. Causes of death after emergency general surgical admission: population cohort study of mortality. BJS Open 2021; 5:6242418. [PMID: 33880531 PMCID: PMC8058150 DOI: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A substantial number of patients treated in emergency general surgery (EGS) services die within a year of discharge. The aim of this study was to analyse causes of death and their relationship to discharge diagnoses, in patients who died within 1 year of discharge from an EGS service in Scotland. Methods This was a population cohort study of all patients with an EGS admission in Scotland, UK, in the year before death. Patients admitted to EGS services between January 2008 and December 2017 were included. Data regarding patient admissions were obtained from the Information Services Division in Scotland, and cross-referenced to death certificate data, obtained from the National Records of Scotland. Results Of 507 308 patients admitted to EGS services, 7917 died while in hospital, and 52 094 within 1 year of discharge. For the latter, the median survival time was 67 (i.q.r. 21–168) days after EGS discharge. Malignancy accounted for 48 per cent of deaths and was the predominant cause of death in patients aged over 35 years. The cause of death was directly related to the discharge diagnosis in 56.5 per cent of patients. Symptom-based discharge diagnoses were often associated with a malignancy not diagnosed on admission. Conclusion When analysed by subsequent cause of death, EGS is a cancer-based specialty. Adequate follow-up and close links with oncology and palliative care services merit development.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ramsay
- Department of General Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK.,Rowett Institute for Health, Foresterhill, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - J M Wohlgemut
- Department of General Surgery, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - M Bekheit
- Department of General Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK.,Department of Surgery, Elkabbary Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - A J M Watson
- Department of Surgery, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, UK
| | - J O Jansen
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Price S, Spencer A, Zhang X, Ball S, Lyratzopoulos G, Mujica-Mota R, Stapley S, Ukoumunne OC, Hamilton W. Trends in time to cancer diagnosis around the period of changing national guidance on referral of symptomatic patients: A serial cross-sectional study using UK electronic healthcare records from 2006-17. Cancer Epidemiol 2020; 69:101805. [PMID: 32919226 PMCID: PMC7480981 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2020.101805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND UK primary-care referral guidance describes the signs, symptoms, and test results ("features") of undiagnosed cancer. Guidance revision in 2015 liberalised investigation by introducing more low-risk features. We studied adults with cancer whose features were in the 2005 guidance ("Old-NICE") or were introduced in the revision ("New-NICE"). We compared time to diagnosis between the groups, and its trend over 2006-2017. METHODS Clinical Practice Research Datalink records were analysed for adults with incident myeloma, breast, bladder, colorectal, lung, oesophageal, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, stomach or uterine cancers in 1/1/2006-31/12/2017. Cancer-specific features in the year before diagnosis were used to create New-NICE and Old-NICE groups. Diagnostic interval was time between the index feature and diagnosis. Semiparametric varying-coefficient analyses compared diagnostic intervals between New-NICE and Old-NICE groups over 1/1/2006-31/12/2017. RESULTS Over all cancers (N = 83,935), median (interquartile range) Old-NICE diagnostic interval rose over 2006-2017, from 51 (20-132) to 64 (30-148) days, with increases in breast (15 vs 25 days), lung (103 vs 135 days), ovarian (65·5 vs 100 days), prostate (80 vs 93 days) and stomach (72·5 vs 102 days) cancers. Median New-NICE values were consistently longer (99, 40-212 in 2006 vs 103, 42-236 days in 2017) than Old-NICE values over all cancers. After guidance revision, New-NICE diagnostic intervals became shorter than Old-NICE values for colorectal cancer. CONCLUSIONS Despite improvements for colorectal cancer, scope remains to reduce diagnostic intervals for most cancers. Liberalised investigation requires protecting and enhancing cancer-diagnostic services to avoid their becoming a rate-limiting step in the diagnostic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Price
- University of Exeter Medical School, Room 1.20 College House, St Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, UK.
| | - Anne Spencer
- Health Economics Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- University of Exeter Business School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Susan Ball
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South West Peninsula, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | | | | | - Sal Stapley
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Obioha C Ukoumunne
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South West Peninsula, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Willie Hamilton
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
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Heyhoe J, Reynolds C, Lawton R. The early diagnosis of cancer in primary care: A qualitative exploration of the patient's role and acceptable safety-netting strategies. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 29:e13195. [PMID: 31829486 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study had two aims-to assess the components considered important for patient involvement in diagnosing cancer earlier in primary care and to assess the acceptability, feasibility, cost and burden of three safety-netting interventions in terms of their potential to become a sustainable component of standard care and improve diagnostic outcomes for cancer in a primary care setting. METHOD Fifteen interviews were conducted with patients and GPs/Nurse Practitioners. Findings were fed back at a workshop with 18 stakeholders who helped to conceptualise an intervention. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Stakeholder discussions were captured through group feedback sessions. RESULTS Three key themes around stakeholders' views on patient involvement emerged from the interviews. These were keeping the door open, roles and responsibilities and fear of cancer. Interview findings and workshop feedback identified the intervention should include a verbal discussion and plan, written information and a patient prompt option. CONCLUSION Patient involvement in diagnosing cancer in primary care is considered acceptable to patients and HCPs. Factors that facilitate or hinder involvement have been identified. Components deemed important in a safety-netting intervention, and potential costs and benefits were established. This knowledge can direct future research and the development of safety-netting interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Heyhoe
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford, UK
| | | | - Rebecca Lawton
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford, UK.,School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Lamb MJ, Roman E, Howell DA, Kane E, Bagguley T, Burton C, Patmore R, Smith AG. Hodgkin lymphoma detection and survival: findings from the Haematological Malignancy Research Network. BJGP Open 2019; 3:bjgpopen19X101668. [PMID: 31822492 PMCID: PMC6995857 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpopen19x101668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hodgkin lymphoma is usually detected in primary care with early signs and symptoms, and is highly treatable with standardised chemotherapy. However, late presentation is associated with poorer outcomes. AIM To investigate the relationship between markers of advanced disease, emergency admission, and survival following a diagnosis of classical Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL). DESIGN & SETTING The study was set within a sociodemographically representative UK population-based patient cohort of ~4 million, within which all patients were tracked through their care pathways, and linked to national data obtained from Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) and deaths. METHOD All 971 patients with CHL newly diagnosed between 1 September 2004-31 August 2015 were followed until 18th December 2018. RESULTS The median diagnostic age was 41.5 years (range 0-96 years), 55.2% of the patients were male, 31.2% had stage IV disease, 43.0% had a moderate-high or high risk prognostic score, and 18.7% were admitted via the emergency route prior to diagnosis. The relationship between age and emergency admission was U-shaped: more likely in patients aged <25 years and ≥70 years. Compared to patients admitted via other routes, those presenting as an emergency had more advanced disease and poorer 3-year survival (relative survival 68.4% [95% confidence interval {CI} = 60.3 to 75.2] versus 89.8% [95% CI = 87.0 to 92.0], respectively [P<0.01]). However, after adjusting for clinically important prognostic factors, no difference in survival remained. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that CHL survival as a whole could be increased by around 4% if the cancer in patients who presented as an emergency had been detected at the same point as in other patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxine Je Lamb
- Research Fellow, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Eve Roman
- Professor, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Debra A Howell
- Senior Research Fellow, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Eleanor Kane
- Research Fellow, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Timothy Bagguley
- Data Analyst, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Cathy Burton
- Consultant Haematologist, Haematological Malignancy Diagnostic Service, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Russell Patmore
- Consultant Haematologist, Queen's Centre for Oncology and Haematology, Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals, Cottingham, UK
| | - Alexandra G Smith
- Reader, Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group (ECSG), Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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Herbert A, Abel GA, Winters S, McPhail S, Elliss-Brookes L, Lyratzopoulos G. Cancer diagnoses after emergency GP referral or A&E attendance in England: determinants and time trends in Routes to Diagnosis data, 2006-2015. Br J Gen Pract 2019; 69:e724-e730. [PMID: 31455644 PMCID: PMC6713517 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp19x705473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of cancer as an emergency is associated with poor outcomes but has a complex aetiology. Examining determinants and time trends in diagnostic routes can help to appreciate the critical role of general practice over time in diagnostic pathways for patients with cancer. AIM To examine sociodemographic, cancer site, and temporal associations with type of presentation among patients with cancer diagnosed as emergencies. DESIGN AND SETTING Analysis of Routes to Diagnosis data, 2006-2015, for patients with cancer in England. METHOD The authors estimated adjusted proportions of emergency presentation after emergency GP referral (GP-EP) or presentation to accident and emergency (AE-EP), by patient sex, age, deprivation group, and year of diagnosis using multivariable regression. RESULTS Among 554 621 patients presenting as emergencies, 24% (n = 130 372) presented as GP-EP, 62% as AE-EP (n = 346 192), and 14% (n = 78 057) through Other-EP sub-routes. Patients presenting as emergencies were more likely to have been GP-referred if they lived in less deprived areas or were subsequently diagnosed with pancreatic, gallbladder, or ovarian cancer, or acute leukaemia. During the study period the proportion and number of GP-EPs nearly halved (31%, n = 17 364, in 2006; 17%, n = 9155 in 2015), while that of AE-EP increased (55%, n = 31 049 to 68%, n = 36 868). CONCLUSION Patients presenting as emergencies with cancers characterised by symptoms/signs tolerable by patients but appropriately alarming to doctors (for example, pancreatic cancer manifesting as painless jaundice) are over-represented among cases whose emergency presentation involved GP referral. Reductions in diagnoses of cancer through an emergency presentation likely reflect both the continually increasing use of 2-week-wait GP referrals during the study period and reductions in emergency GP referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Herbert
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol; formerly at Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, University College London, London; National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
| | - Gary A Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Exeter; National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
| | - Sam Winters
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
| | - Sean McPhail
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
| | - Lucy Elliss-Brookes
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, University College London, London; National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), Public Health England, London
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Pham TM, Gomez-Cano M, Salika T, Jardel D, Abel GA, Lyratzopoulos G. Diagnostic route is associated with care satisfaction independently of tumour stage: Evidence from linked English Cancer Patient Experience Survey and cancer registration data. Cancer Epidemiol 2019; 61:70-78. [PMID: 31153049 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether diagnostic route (e.g. emergency presentation) is associated with cancer care experience independently of tumour stage is unknown. METHODS We analysed data on 18 590 patients with breast, prostate, colon, lung, and rectal cancers who responded to the 2014 English Cancer Patient Experience Survey, linked to cancer registration data on diagnostic route and tumour stage at diagnosis. We estimated odds ratios (OR) of reporting a negative experience of overall cancer care by tumour stage and diagnostic route (crude and adjusted for patient characteristic and cancer site variables) and examined their interactions with cancer site. RESULTS After adjustment, the likelihood of reporting a negative experience was highest for emergency presenters and lowest for screening-detected patients with breast, colon, and rectal cancers (OR versus two-week-wait 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24-1.83; 0.88, 95% CI 0.75-1.03, respectively). Patients with the most advanced stage were more likely to report a negative experience (OR stage IV versus I 1.37, 95% CI 1.15-1.62) with little confounding between stage and route, and no evidence for cancer-stage or cancer-route interactions. CONCLUSIONS Though the extent of disease is strongly associated with ratings of overall cancer care, diagnostic route (particularly emergency presentation or screening detection) exerts important independent effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tra My Pham
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Mayam Gomez-Cano
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Smeall Building, St Luke's Campus, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Theodosia Salika
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Demian Jardel
- Cancer Alliance Data, Evidence and Analysis Service (CADEAS), NHS England, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London, SE1 6LH, UK
| | - Gary A Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Smeall Building, St Luke's Campus, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, WC1E 7HB, London, UK; Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, UK.
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Renzi C, Lyratzopoulos G, Hamilton W, Maringe C, Rachet B. Contrasting effects of comorbidities on emergency colon cancer diagnosis: a longitudinal data-linkage study in England. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:311. [PMID: 31092238 PMCID: PMC6521448 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4075-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One in three colon cancers are diagnosed as an emergency, which is associated with worse cancer outcomes. Chronic conditions (comorbidities) affect large proportions of adults and they might influence the risk of emergency presentations (EP). METHODS We aimed to evaluate the effect of specific pre-existing comorbidities on the risk of colon cancer being diagnosed following an EP rather than through non-emergency routes. The cohort study included 5745 colon cancer patients diagnosed in England 2005-2010, with individually-linked cancer registry, primary and secondary care data. In addition to multivariable analyses we also used potential-outcomes methods. RESULTS Colon cancer patients with comorbidities consulted their GP more frequently with cancer symptoms during the pre-diagnostic year, compared with non-comorbid cancer patients. EP occurred more frequently in patients with 'serious' or complex comorbidities (diabetes, cardiac and respiratory diseases) diagnosed/treated in hospital during the years pre-cancer diagnosis (43% EP in comorbid versus 27% in non-comorbid individuals; multivariable analysis Odds Ratio (OR), controlling for socio-demographic factors and symptoms: men OR = 2.40; 95% CI 2.0-2.9 and women OR = 1.98; 95% CI 1.6-2.4. Among women younger than 60, gynaecological (OR = 3.41; 95% CI 1.2-9.9) or recent onset gastro-intestinal conditions (OR = 2.84; 95% CI 1.1-7.7) increased the risk of EP. In contrast, primary care visits for hypertension monitoring decreased EPs for both genders. CONCLUSIONS Patients with comorbidities have a greater risk of being diagnosed with cancer as an emergency, although they consult more frequently with cancer symptoms during the year pre-cancer diagnosis. This suggests that comorbidities may interfere with diagnostic reasoning or investigations due to 'competing demands' or because they provide 'alternative explanations'. In contrast, the management of chronic risk factors such as hypertension may offer opportunities for earlier diagnosis. Interventions are needed to support the diagnostic process in comorbid patients. Appropriate guidelines and diagnostic services to support the evaluation of new or changing symptoms in comorbid patients may be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Renzi
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes) Research Group, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Cancer Survival Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT UK
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, ECHO (Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes) Research Group, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - Willie Hamilton
- University of Exeter Medical School, St Luke’s Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU UK
| | - Camille Maringe
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Cancer Survival Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT UK
| | - Bernard Rachet
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Cancer Survival Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT UK
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Impact of GP gatekeeping on quality of care, and health outcomes, use, and expenditure: a systematic review. Br J Gen Pract 2019; 69:e294-e303. [PMID: 30910875 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp19x702209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND GPs often act as gatekeepers, authorising patients' access to specialty care. Gatekeeping is frequently perceived as lowering health service use and health expenditure. However, there is little evidence suggesting that gatekeeping is more beneficial than direct access in terms of patient- and health-related outcomes. AIM To establish the impact of GP gatekeeping on quality of care, health use and expenditure, and health outcomes and patient satisfaction. DESIGN AND SETTING A systematic review. METHOD The databases MEDLINE, PreMEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant articles using a search strategy. Two authors independently screened search results and assessed the quality of studies. RESULTS Electronic searches identified 4899 studies (after removing duplicates), of which 25 met the inclusion criteria. Gatekeeping was associated with better quality of care and appropriate referral for further hospital visits and investigation. However, one study reported unfavourable outcomes for patients with cancer under gatekeeping, and some concerns were raised about the accuracy of diagnoses made by gatekeepers. Gatekeeping resulted in fewer hospitalisations and use of specialist care, but inevitably was associated with more primary care visits. Patients were less satisfied with gatekeeping than direct-access systems. CONCLUSION Gatekeeping was associated with lower healthcare use and expenditure, and better quality of care, but with lower patient satisfaction. Survival rate of patients with cancer in gatekeeping schemes was significantly lower than those in direct access, although primary care gatekeeping was not otherwise associated with delayed patient referral. The long-term outcomes of gatekeeping arrangements should be carefully studied before devising new gatekeeping policies.
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Renzi C, Lyratzopoulos G, Hamilton W, Rachet B. Opportunities for reducing emergency diagnoses of colon cancer in women and men: A data-linkage study on pre-diagnostic symptomatic presentations and benign diagnoses. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13000. [PMID: 30734381 PMCID: PMC6492167 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify opportunities for reducing emergency colon cancer diagnoses, we evaluated symptoms and benign diagnoses recorded before emergency presentations (EP). METHODS Cohort of 5,745 colon cancers diagnosed in England 2005-2010, with individually linked cancer registry and primary care data for the 5-year pre-diagnostic period. RESULTS Colon cancer was diagnosed following EP in 34% of women and 30% of men. Among emergency presenters, 20% of women and 15% of men (p = 0.002) had alarm symptoms (anaemia/rectal bleeding/change in bowel habit) 2-12 months pre-diagnosis. Women with abdominal symptoms (change in bowel habit/constipation/diarrhoea) received a benign diagnosis (irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)/diverticular disease) more frequently than men in the year before EP: 12% vs. 6% among women and men (p = 0.002). EP was more likely in women (OR = 1.20; 95% CI 1.1-1.4), independently of socio-demographic factors and symptoms. Benign diagnoses in the pre-diagnostic year (OR = 2.01; 95% CI 1.2-3.3) and anaemia 2-5 years pre-diagnosis (OR = 1.91; 95% CI 1.2-3.0) increased the risk of EP in women but not men. The risk was particularly high for women aged 40-59 with a recent benign diagnosis vs. none (OR = 4.41; 95% CI 1.3-14.9). CONCLUSIONS Women have an increased risk of EP, in part due to less specific symptoms and their more frequent attribution to benign diagnoses. For women aged 40-59 years with new-onset IBS/diverticular disease innovative diagnostic strategies are needed, which might include use of quantitative faecal haemoglobin testing (FIT) or other colorectal cancer investigations. One-fifth of women had alarm symptoms before EP, offering opportunities for earlier diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Renzi
- Department of Behavioural Science and HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non‐communicable Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | | | | - Bernard Rachet
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non‐communicable Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
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Purdie S, Creighton N, White KM, Baker D, Ewald D, Lee CK, Lyon A, Man J, Michail D, Miller AA, Tan L, Currow D, Young JM. Pathways to diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer: a descriptive cohort study. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2019; 29:2. [PMID: 30737397 PMCID: PMC6368611 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-018-0113-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Little has been published on the diagnostic and referral pathway for lung cancer in Australia. This study set out to quantify general practitioner (GP) and lung specialist attendance and diagnostic imaging in the lead-up to a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and identify common pathways to diagnosis in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. We used linked health data for participants of the 45 and Up Study (a NSW population-based cohort study) diagnosed with NSCLC between 2006 and 2012. Our main outcome measures were GP and specialist attendances, X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest and lung cancer-related hospital admissions. Among our study cohort (N = 894), 60% (n = 536) had ≥4 GP attendances in the 3 months prior to diagnosis of NSCLC, 56% (n = 505) had GP-ordered imaging (chest X-ray or CT scan), 39% (N = 349) attended a respiratory physician and 11% (N = 102) attended a cardiothoracic surgeon. The two most common pathways to diagnosis, accounting for one in three people, included GP and lung specialist (respiratory physician or cardiothoracic surgeon) involvement. Overall, 25% of people (n = 223) had an emergency hospital admission. For 14% of people (N = 129), an emergency hospital admission was the only event identified on the pathway to diagnosis. We found little effect of remoteness of residence on access to services. This study identified a substantial proportion of people with NSCLC being diagnosed in an emergency setting. Further research is needed to establish whether there were barriers to the timely diagnosis of these cases. Examining events leading to the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Australia yields insights to guide further research and perhaps improve the pathways to diagnosis. NSCLC is by far the most common form of lung cancer. Researchers, led by the Cancer Institute New South Wales, investigated clinical care contacts leading to diagnosis, using a descriptive cohort study of 894 patients diagnosed between 2006 and 2012. The researchers quantified contact with GPs and lung specialists, hospital admissions and diagnostic imaging procedures. Living in remote locations had little influence on access to services. More than half of the patients did not see a lung specialist during the pathway to diagnosis, while a quarter received their diagnosis in an emergency setting. Further research should investigate whether there are barriers preventing timely diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dan Ewald
- North Coast Primary Health Network, Ballina, NSW, Australia.,University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Chee Khoon Lee
- Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison Lyon
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Johnathan Man
- Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Michail
- Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alexis Andrew Miller
- Illawarra Cancer Care Centre, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Oncology Informatics, University of Wollongong, Gwynneville, NSW, Australia
| | - Lawrence Tan
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jane M Young
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Surgical Outcomes Research Centre, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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“-Omas” presenting as “-itis”: acute inflammatory presentations of common gastrointestinal neoplasms. Emerg Radiol 2019; 26:433-448. [DOI: 10.1007/s10140-019-01678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Howell DA, Hart RI, Smith AG, Macleod U, Patmore R, Roman E. Disease-related factors affecting timely lymphoma diagnosis: a qualitative study exploring patient experiences. Br J Gen Pract 2019; 69:e134-e145. [PMID: 30692091 PMCID: PMC6355261 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp19x701009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expediting cancer diagnosis is widely perceived as one way to improve patient outcomes. Evidence indicates that lymphoma diagnosis is often delayed, yet understanding of issues influencing this is incomplete. AIM To explore patients' and their relatives' perceptions of disease-related factors affecting time to diagnosis of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. DESIGN AND SETTING Qualitative UK study involving patients with indolent and aggressive lymphomas, and their relatives, from an established population-based cohort in the north of England. METHOD Semi-structured interviews with 35 patients and 15 of their relatives. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed, and qualitative descriptive analysis was undertaken. RESULTS Participant accounts suggest that certain features of lymphoma can impact on patients' and healthcare providers' (HCPs) responses to disease onset. Three characteristics stand out: disease occurrence (rare), manifestation (varied), and investigative options (often inconclusive). Interviewees described how they, and some HCPs, lacked familiarity with lymphoma, seldom considering it a likely explanation for their symptoms. Symptoms reported were highly variable, frequently non-specific, and often initially thought to be associated with various benign, self-limiting causes. Blood tests and other investigations, while frequently able to detect abnormalities, did not reliably indicate malignancy. Interviewees reported the potential for improvements among HCPs in information gathering, communication of uncertainty, and re-presentation advice for non-resolving/progressive health changes. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the complex characteristics of lymphoma, perceived by patients as prolonging time to diagnosis, often despite significant effort by themselves, their relatives, and HCPs to expedite this process. The findings also illustrate why simple solutions to delayed diagnosis of lymphoma are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Howell
- Epidemiology and Cancer Statistics Group, professor of epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York
| | - Ruth I Hart
- Epidemiology and Cancer Statistics Group, professor of epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York
| | - Alexandra G Smith
- Epidemiology and Cancer Statistics Group, professor of epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York
| | - Una Macleod
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull
| | - Russell Patmore
- Department of Haematology, Queen's Centre for Oncology and Haematology, Castle Hill Hospital, Hull
| | - Eve Roman
- Epidemiology and Cancer Statistics Group, professor of epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York
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Lyratzopoulos G. Electronic patient records research to aid diagnostic reasoning for possible cancer in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2018; 68:408-409. [PMID: 30166371 PMCID: PMC6104858 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp18x698585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare & Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London and THIS (The Health Improvement Studies) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge
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Early detection of multiple myeloma in primary care using blood tests: a case-control study in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2018; 68:e586-e593. [PMID: 30104326 PMCID: PMC6104875 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp18x698357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple myeloma is a haematological cancer characterised by numerous non-specific symptoms leading to diagnostic delay in a large proportion of patients. Aim To identify which blood tests are useful in suggesting or excluding a diagnosis of myeloma. Design and setting A matched case–control study set in UK primary care using routinely collected data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Method Symptom prevalence and blood tests were analysed up to 5 years before diagnosis in 2703 cases and 12 157 matched controls. Likelihood ratios (LR) were used to classify tests or their combinations as useful rule-in tests (LR+ = ≥5), or rule-out tests (LR− = ≤0.2). Results Raised plasma viscosity (PV) had an LR+ = 2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.7 to 2.3; erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) 1.9, 95% CI = 1.7 to 2.0; and C-reactive protein (CRP) 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1 to 1.4. A normal haemoglobin had an LR− = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.39 to 0.45; calcium LR− = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.83; and creatinine LR− = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.83. The test combination with the lowest LR− was all normal haemoglobin with calcium and PV, which had an LR− = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.18, though the LR− for normal haemoglobin and PV together was 0.12 (95% CI = 0.07 to 0.23). Conclusion Plasma viscosity and ESR are better for both ruling in and ruling out the disease compared with C-reactive protein. A combination of a normal ESR or PV and normal haemoglobin is a simple rule-out approach for patients currently being tested in primary care.
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Salika T, Abel GA, Mendonca SC, von Wagner C, Renzi C, Herbert A, McPhail S, Lyratzopoulos G. Associations between diagnostic pathways and care experience in colorectal cancer: evidence from patient-reported data. Frontline Gastroenterol 2018; 9:241-248. [PMID: 30046429 PMCID: PMC6056077 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2017-100926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine how different pathways to diagnosis of colorectal cancer may be associated with the experience of subsequent care. DESIGN Patient survey linked to information on diagnostic route.English patients with colorectal cancer (analysis sample n=6837) who responded to a patient survey soon after their hospital treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Odds Ratios and adjusted proportions of negative evaluation of key aspects of care for colorectal cancer, including the experience of shared decision-making about treatment, specialist nursing and care coordination, by diagnostic route (ie, screening detection, emergency presentation, urgent and elective general practitioner referral). RESULTS For 14 of 18 questions, there was evidence (p≤0.02) for variation in patient experience by diagnostic route, with 6-31 percentage point differences between routes in adjusted proportions of negative experience. Emergency presenters were more likely to report a negative experience for most questions, including those about adequacy of information about their diagnosis and sufficient explanation before operations. Screen-detected patients were least likely to report negative experiences except for support from primary care. Patients diagnosed through elective primary care referrals were most likely to report worse experience for questions for which overall variation by route was generally small. CONCLUSIONS Screening-detected patients tend to report the best and emergency presenters the worst experience of subsequent care. Improvement efforts can target care integration for screening-detected patients and provision of information about the diagnosis and treatment of emergency presenters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodosia Salika
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gary A Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Exeter, UK
| | - Silvia C Mendonca
- The Health Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christian von Wagner
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Cristina Renzi
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Annie Herbert
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
- The Health Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Zhou Y, Mendonca SC, Abel GA, Hamilton W, Walter FM, Johnson S, Shelton J, Elliss-Brookes L, McPhail S, Lyratzopoulos G. Variation in 'fast-track' referrals for suspected cancer by patient characteristic and cancer diagnosis: evidence from 670 000 patients with cancers of 35 different sites. Br J Cancer 2018; 118:24-31. [PMID: 29182609 PMCID: PMC5765227 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In England, 'fast-track' (also known as 'two-week wait') general practitioner referrals for suspected cancer in symptomatic patients are used to shorten diagnostic intervals and are supported by clinical guidelines. However, the use of the fast-track pathway may vary for different patient groups. METHODS We examined data from 669 220 patients with 35 cancers diagnosed in 2006-2010 following either fast-track or 'routine' primary-to-secondary care referrals using 'Routes to Diagnosis' data. We estimated the proportion of fast-track referrals by sociodemographic characteristic and cancer site and used logistic regression to estimate respective crude and adjusted odds ratios. We additionally explored whether sociodemographic associations varied by cancer. RESULTS There were large variations in the odds of fast-track referral by cancer (P<0.001). Patients with testicular and breast cancer were most likely to have been diagnosed after a fast-track referral (adjusted odds ratios 2.73 and 2.35, respectively, using rectal cancer as reference); whereas patients with brain cancer and leukaemias least likely (adjusted odds ratios 0.05 and 0.09, respectively, for brain cancer and acute myeloid leukaemia). There were sex, age and deprivation differences in the odds of fast-track referral (P<0.013) that varied in their size and direction for patients with different cancers (P<0.001). For example, fast-track referrals were least likely in younger women with endometrial cancer and in older men with testicular cancer. CONCLUSIONS Fast-track referrals are less likely for cancers characterised by nonspecific presenting symptoms and patients belonging to low cancer incidence demographic groups. Interventions beyond clinical guidelines for 'alarm' symptoms are needed to improve diagnostic timeliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhou
- Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Strangeways Research Laboratory, 2 Wort’s Causeway, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - S C Mendonca
- Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Strangeways Research Laboratory, 2 Wort’s Causeway, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - G A Abel
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Smeall Building, St Luke’s Campus, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK
| | - W Hamilton
- University of Exeter Medical School (Primary Care), Smeall Building, St Luke’s Campus, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK
| | - F M Walter
- Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Strangeways Research Laboratory, 2 Wort’s Causeway, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
| | - S Johnson
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England Zone A, 2nd Floor, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH, UK
| | - J Shelton
- Cancer Research UK, Angel Building 407 St John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - L Elliss-Brookes
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England Zone A, 2nd Floor, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH, UK
| | - S McPhail
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England Zone A, 2nd Floor, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH, UK
| | - G Lyratzopoulos
- Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Strangeways Research Laboratory, 2 Wort’s Causeway, Cambridge CB1 8RN, UK
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England Zone A, 2nd Floor, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London SE1 6LH, UK
- Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcomes (ECHO) Research Group, Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK
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Swann R, McPhail S, Witt J, Shand B, Abel GA, Hiom S, Rashbass J, Lyratzopoulos G, Rubin G. Diagnosing cancer in primary care: results from the National Cancer Diagnosis Audit. Br J Gen Pract 2018; 68:e63-e72. [PMID: 29255111 PMCID: PMC5737321 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp17x694169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continual improvements in diagnostic processes are needed to minimise the proportion of patients with cancer who experience diagnostic delays. Clinical audit is a means of achieving this. AIM To characterise key aspects of the diagnostic process for cancer and to generate baseline measures for future re-audit. DESIGN AND SETTING Clinical audit of cancer diagnosis in general practices in England. METHOD Information on patient and tumour characteristics held in the English National Cancer Registry was supplemented by information from GPs in participating practices. Data items included diagnostic timepoints, patient characteristics, and clinical management. RESULTS Data were collected on 17 042 patients with a new diagnosis of cancer during 2014 from 439 practices. Participating practices were similar to non-participating ones, particularly regarding population age, urban/rural location, and practice-based patient experience measures. The median diagnostic interval for all patients was 40 days (interquartile range [IQR] 15-86 days). Most patients were referred promptly (median primary care interval 5 days [IQR 0-27 days]). Where GPs deemed diagnostic delays to have occurred (22% of cases), patient, clinician, or system factors were responsible in 26%, 28%, and 34% of instances, respectively. Safety netting was recorded for 44% of patients. At least one primary care-led investigation was carried out for 45% of patients. Most patients (76%) had at least one existing comorbid condition; 21% had three or more. CONCLUSION The findings identify avenues for quality improvement activity and provide a baseline for future audit of the impact of 2015 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance on management and referral of suspected cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Swann
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London, and Cancer Research UK, London
| | - Sean McPhail
- National Disease Registration, National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London
| | | | - Brian Shand
- National Disease Registration, National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London
| | - Gary A Abel
- University of Exeter Clinical School, University of Exeter, Exeter
| | - Sara Hiom
- Early Diagnosis and Cancer Intelligence, Cancer Research UK, London
| | - Jem Rashbass
- National Disease Registration, National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England, London
| | - Georgios Lyratzopoulos
- National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service, Public Health England; Epidemiology of Cancer Healthcare and Outcome Group, University College London, London; Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge
| | - Greg Rubin
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle; National Cancer Diagnosis Audit Steering Group, Cancer Research UK, London
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