Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Socioeconomic Inequalities in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Colon and Ovarian Cancer in England Between 2016-2017

This study aims to understand if there are differences in how people from various social and economic backgrounds in England are diagnosed and treated for colon and ovarian cancer. Researchers will examine information from 2016-2017 to see if some groups of people experience delays in getting a diagnosis or starting treatment, or if they receive different types of treatment. The goal is to identify if inequalities exist in these areas, as these differences could affect how well people recover. The study will look at overall patterns using existing health data, without directly involving patients, to help improve cancer care for everyone.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

University of Hull

Enrolment target

45,831

Start

25 Oct 2021

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

What is this study about?

This study looks into an important question: do people in England experience different levels of care for colon and ovarian cancer based on their social and economic background? We know that generally, survival rates for these cancers in England are not as good as in some other countries. There's also a concern that people living in more disadvantaged areas might have worse outcomes.

The researchers are investigating if these differences might be linked to how quickly people are diagnosed and start treatment, and what kind of treatments they receive. By studying information from 2016 and 2017, they hope to find out if there are unfair delays or different treatment approaches for certain groups of people. For example, do some people wait longer to get a cancer diagnosis, or to start their surgery or chemotherapy? And do they receive the same types of treatment options?

To do this, the study uses securely linked health records from various NHS sources and cancer registries. This means they can look at trends across a large number of patients without identifying anyone individually. They will also consider other factors like age, other health conditions, and ethnicity, to get a clear picture of what's happening. The aim is to highlight any unequal access to timely diagnosis and treatment, which could then help improve care for all cancer patients.

Key takeaways

The study investigates differences in cancer care for colon and ovarian cancer in England.
It focuses on how quickly people are diagnosed and treated, and what treatments they receive.
Researchers are exploring if these differences are linked to social and economic backgrounds.
The study uses existing, anonymised health records, so no direct patient involvement is needed.
Findings could help identify and reduce unfair differences in cancer care for everyone.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking at information for people who were diagnosed with colon or ovarian cancer in England between 1st January 2016 and 31st December 2017. Participants in the study will be aged between 18 and 99 years old at the time of their diagnosis.

However, some people's records won't be included. This includes men diagnosed with ovarian cancer (as it's a female-specific cancer), and anyone who had cancers of the appendix. Also excluded are certain types of ovarian tumours that are considered 'borderline' or very rare cancers called sarcomas.

Finally, the study will generally not include people who had another invasive cancer diagnosed before their colon or ovarian cancer. The focus is on the first diagnosis for these specific cancers during the study period.

Quick self-check

Were you diagnosed with colon or ovarian cancer in England?
Was your diagnosis between 1st January 2016 and 31st December 2017?
Were you aged between 18 and 99 years at diagnosis?
Was your cancer not an appendix cancer or a very rare type of ovarian tumour?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

You will not be asked to participate directly in this study. This research uses existing health information that has already been collected by the NHS and cancer registries. The researchers will be looking at this information in a way that protects your privacy, so you won't be contacted, and no new tests or appointments will be needed.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no direct risks to individuals involved in this study as it uses existing anonymised data and does not involve patient contact or specific medical interventions. The potential benefit is that the findings could help us understand and address unfair differences in cancer diagnosis and treatment across England, potentially leading to fairer and more effective care for future patients. You cannot withdraw from the study as individual patient data is not being used or identified.

Locations (1)

Hull York Medical School
Hull, United Kingdom

Common questions

What kind of cancers are being studied?

This study is looking at colon cancer and ovarian cancer diagnoses.

Why is this study important?

It aims to find out if people from different social and economic backgrounds receive different levels of care for cancer, which could help improve fairness in treatment for everyone.

Will my personal details be used?

No, the study uses existing health information that has been made anonymous, so your personal details will be kept private.

Do I need to do anything to take part?

No, you don't need to do anything. The study uses existing health records.

What years are covered by this study?

The study looks at diagnoses made between 2016 and 2017.

How to find out more

Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.