Secondary Care Colorectal Cancer Pathway Review
This study reviews the NHS Lothian pathway for detecting bowel cancer, focusing on a newer approach where patients provide two stool samples (called FIT tests). Bowel cancer is common in Scotland, and early detection is vital for better survival. Currently, hospital services like colonoscopies are very busy, leading to delays. This research aims to see if the two-FIT test approach, which has already shown promise in identifying cancer more effectively and reducing missed cases, is truly improving patient care and saving money. By looking at data from about 25,000 patients, the study hopes to find the best ways to streamline diagnosis and detect bowel cancer earlier.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers in Scotland. Finding it early makes a big difference to how successfully it can be treated and improves chances of survival. Unfortunately, Scotland has higher rates of cancer-related deaths than other parts of the UK, so improving early detection is really important. Most bowel cancers are found after someone is referred by their GP to a hospital specialist.
When referred to the hospital, patients are asked to provide a stool sample for a type of test called a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT). This test looks for tiny amounts of blood in your poo that you wouldn't necessarily see yourself. A positive result doesn't mean you definitely have cancer, but it does mean further checks are needed, like a CT scan or a colonoscopy. Currently, services that provide these further checks are very busy, which can lead to delays for patients. This study is looking at a new approach where two FIT tests are used instead of one, which has previously shown to be better at finding cancer and reducing missed cases.
This research is looking back at information from approximately 25,000 patients in NHS Lothian who have gone through this updated pathway between April 2022 and August 2025. The aim is to understand how well this new two-FIT test pathway is working in terms of detecting bowel cancer, how quickly people are diagnosed, and if it's a cost-effective way to find cancer. They will also look for common factors among patients that might increase their risk of bowel cancer. The findings from this study will then be used to help develop even better ways to detect bowel cancer in the future, aiming for greater efficiency and earlier diagnosis.
Key takeaways
- Reviews a new two-stool test approach for suspected bowel cancer in NHS Lothian.
- Aims to see if this method detects cancer earlier and more efficiently.
- Uses data from about 25,000 patients who have already been through the pathway.
- Will help create better pathways for earlier bowel cancer diagnosis in the future.
- Focuses on improving survival rates by finding cancer sooner.
- No active patient involvement or new tests needed for this study.
Who may be eligible?
This study looks at information from people who have already been through the NHS Lothian pathway for suspected bowel cancer.
To be included, patients must have been referred to the hospital between April 2022 and August 2025 because their doctor suspected they might have bowel cancer based on their symptoms.
Patients would not be included if they were under 18, already had inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis), were already being regularly checked for polyps (small growths in the bowel), or had already been diagnosed with bowel cancer before their referral to the pathway.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Were referred to NHS Lothian for suspected bowel cancer symptoms.
- Your referral was between April 2022 and August 2025.
- You were 18 years old or older at the time of referral.
- You did NOT have inflammatory bowel disease.
- You were NOT already under monitoring for polyps.
- You had NOT previously been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
What does participation involve?
This study involves looking at existing patient records and information. No new tests, visits, or medications are required from patients. You would not need to do anything or attend any appointments specifically for this study. The researchers will simply review anonymous data from people who have already been through the NHS Lothian bowel cancer pathway.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- NHS LothianVerified postcodeEdinburgh, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a FIT test?
A FIT test is a simple stool test that checks for tiny specks of blood in your poo, which might not be visible to the naked eye. This blood can sometimes be a sign of bowel cancer or other bowel conditions.
Why is early detection of bowel cancer important?
Finding bowel cancer early means there's a much better chance of successful treatment, leading to better health outcomes and improving survival rates.
What does 'secondary care' mean?
'Secondary care' refers to hospital services, where you might see specialists like a bowel surgeon, after being referred by your GP (primary care).
Will my personal data be safe?
Yes, the study will only use anonymous patient information. Your identity will be protected, and your data will be handled securely and confidentially, following all privacy regulations.
How will this study help patients?
By understanding how well the current pathway works and identifying any areas for improvement, this study aims to develop better, more efficient ways to detect bowel cancer sooner, which will benefit future patients.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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