Experience of interval scans for adults with primary brain tumours
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The experience of interval scans for adults living with primary brain tumours
IRAS ID
291717
Contact name
Sarah Rudkin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Background:
People living with Primary Brain Tumours (PBT) face a complex and unpredictable illness. Throughout the disease course they undergo various treatments and follow-up with regular interval scanning. There is a high prevalence of psychological distress amongst people living with PBT which can have a significant effect on their symptoms and QoL. Issues such as uncertainty and anxiety may be exacerbated by interval scanning. There are potential costs and benefits to interval scanning, however there is no high-quality evidence to suggest interval scanning is beneficial or whether scans alter outcomes of importance for people living with PBTs. Coping also has important implications for psychological wellbeing, however, this has not been researched in adults living with PBTs undergoing interval scans.Aims:
There is no previous research on the experience of interval scanning for people living with PBT, therefore little is known about it. The aim of this study is to gain an in-depth understanding of how adults living with PBTs experience and cope with interval scanning.Study sample:
Participants will be recruited from Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust and King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Participants will include adults living with a diagnosis of PBT who have experienced interval scans.Methods:
This study will use a qualitative method and grounded theory approach. Interviews will help to provide an in-depth understanding of people’s experiences and the use of a grounded theory approach will lead to the construction of a model or theory based on psychological factors.Study outcomes:
Qualitative research and emerging theory can help to guide future research, which, for example may look at measuring and understanding the impact of interval scanning. It may also guide future research in the development of interventions for those going through the interval scanning process. Understanding people's experiences can also help to inform current practice, such as informing patients of the potential costs and benefits of interval scanning, so they can make informed decisions about their care.REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/PR/0343
Date of REC Opinion
19 Apr 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion