Impact of covid-19 on colorectal cancer referrals [COVID-19]
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The COVID cancer time-bomb – understanding how patient responses to C19 impacts on colorectal cancer referrals.
IRAS ID
287158
Contact name
Nick Peake
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Hallam University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 28 days
Research summary
Following the recent emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated governmental measures to treat the sick and slow the spread of the virus it has been projected that there will be a dramatic increase in colorectal cancer deaths over the next year. This could be due to a number of factors including a 75% reduction in referrals from GPs, and suspension of elective surgeries due to services being directed at dealing with the emergency. In respect to local colorectal cancer data, it shows that there has been a 25% reduction in referrals of such patients and a 35% reduction in new colorectal cancer diagnoses (K Chapple, informal communication). This means that a large proportion of patients will remain undiagnosed resulting in later stage detection, and as a result, an increased likelihood of death. As with many aspects of the COVID-19 response, these consequences were not anticipated and need redressing.
Colorectal cancer remains a challenging condition to diagnose as there is a recognised reluctance for patients to seek early medical attention. Reasons for this delayed presentation are multi-factorial but may include fear of cancer diagnosis, embarrassment or anticipated discomfort, and lack of time to attend for the procedures. However, it is unknown how these reasons combine with socio-cognitive factors related to COVID-19 to influence judgements on seeking investigation for suspected colorectal cancer. Understanding why some people are not seeking medical advice could support the development of interventions to attempt to encourage uptake and redress the reduction of uptake.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/NW/0396
Date of REC Opinion
6 Oct 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion