Exploring breast cancer inequalities v.01
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring inequalities in breast cancer outcomes through the lens of intersectionality: A qualitative study
IRAS ID
325406
Contact name
Mar Estupiñán Fdez. Mesa
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
SPON-2023-15, SPON-2023-15
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 29 days
Research summary
This research forms the second part of the applicant’s PhD, aiming at understanding socioeconomic inequalities in breast cancer outcomes across the cancer pathway. There is evidence that women from minority ethnic groups with breast cancer, particularly from Black African/Caribbean and Asian communities, persistently report less favourable cancer care experiences than White patients. Although some hypotheses have been proposed; it remains unclear what exactly influences these differences. Understanding patients’ views in relation to their care experience is key to inform and improve NHS cancer services. This qualitative research aims to understand what factors shape the unique care experiences of Black African/Caribbean and Asian women with breast cancer, and to understand how systems of oppression (e.g., racism) may play a role in influencing breast cancer inequalities in the UK.
This research is a multiple-site study including 2 NHS Trusts (Guy’s and St Thomas’, London, and Royal Surrey Hospital, Guildford) where patients attend breast cancer services. At each clinic, potential eligible patients will be identified and invited to participate in the study. Data will be collected from interviews, and analysed to identify common themes that will help us understand the unique experiences of Black African/Caribbean and Asian women across the breast cancer care pathway, what influences the decisions they make about their treatment and their interactions with the healthcare system. Research findings will help us explain what factors influence inequalities among Black African/Caribbean and Asian women with breast cancer in the UK and make recommendations to inform policy and practice. This research is funded by the University of Surrey as a studentship awarded to Mar Estupiñán Fernández de Mesa (PhD student).REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/YH/0153
Date of REC Opinion
21 Jul 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion