‘Fit for List?’ Optimising Wellbeing and Outcomes of Cancer Patients
Research type
Research Study
Full title
‘Fit for List?’ Optimising Wellbeing, Fitness and Outcomes of Cancer Patients
IRAS ID
146595
Contact name
Rachael Barlow
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff & Vale University Health Board
Research summary
One in three people in Wales will be diagnosed with cancer and the incidence rises year on year; equating to approximately 16,000 new cases per annum . Wales has poorer cancer outcomes than other countries . This could be related to reduced levels of health before the patient even starts their cancer treatment. Currently, little is done to correct these health problems by the GP at the time of initial referral. It is considered that this creates unnecessary patient suffering and an inefficient use of a very expensive secondary care service.
This pilot study therefore focuses on the novel use of a ‘Fit for List’ health screen including an array of simple tests and interventions that can be used by the General Practitioners (GPs) and/or Practice/Specialist Nurses for patients with suspected cancer. The Bundle should allow the early detection of health problems and ensure the patient is in the best physical condition before they undergo cancer treatment. The logic being the fitter you are entering into treatment, the quicker you will recover.
Currently, preparation begins in the hospital setting, typically days or hours before treatment. The impact however in high-risk patients is limited and problems such as unmanaged anaemia and high blood pressure increases the risk and levels of harm. There is currently a significant missed opportunity to reduce adverse patient outcomes and waste though delays, cancellations and complications11.
Patients will be followed through their subsequent cancer pathway, whether surgical or oncological to determine outcomes; including any delays or complications. The information obtained will be used to design a larger study to fully test the clinical and patient benefits and the cost effectiveness of the Bundle.REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/0169
Date of REC Opinion
27 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion