COLO-SPIRIT Colorectal Symptoms after Pelvic Radiotherapy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
COLO-SPIRIT Colorectal symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy: understanding radiation proctopathy in cancer survivors.
IRAS ID
302062
Contact name
Colin Rees
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences and management of bowel symptoms among cancer survivors, including impact on daily life and experiences of seeking, accessing and providing support and treatment.
Radiation therapy is an integral part of cancer treatment. Around 50% of all cancer patients are treated with radiation at some point. When radiation is used in the pelvic region (e.g. to treat prostate, rectal, bladder or gynaecological cancers) chronic bowel problems can follow. Some patients experience symptoms including rectal bleeding, incontinence, diarrhoea, tenesmus, pelvic pain and urgency. Symptoms may arise months, years or even decades after the radiation treatment. Some estimates suggest between 5 and 10% of those who received pelvic radiotherapy are affected. The impact on quality-of-life is likely to be substantial. A major challenge for health professionals and for patients, is the lack of good management options.
This qualitative study will comprise interviews with patients who have experienced bowel symptoms after radiotherapy and with health professionals from different specialisms. We expect to interview in the region of 30 patients and a similar number of health professionals. Potential participants will be identified and contacted through cancer charities and professional networks as well as through clinical teams and local investigators at collaborating NHS sites.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/PR/1138
Date of REC Opinion
12 Aug 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion