Improving early diagnosis and screening among GTR communities
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Improving early cancer diagnosis and screening among Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities: a community-participatory approach
IRAS ID
356173
Contact name
Sangeeta Chattoo
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, months, days
Research summary
The known social gradient in diagnosis and cancer survival puts Gypsy, traveller and Roma (GTR) communities at a disadvantage, when compared to White majority and other minority groups. High rates of smoking, poor diet, diabetes, significant levels of socio-economic deprivation and lower uptake of HPV vaccine significantly increase their risk of common cancers. A long history of racialisation and health inequalities has resulted in poor understanding of symptoms, delays in diagnosis and limited awareness/uptake of screening, while healthcare agencies struggle to identify and respond to the healthcare needs of GTR communities.
This three year qualitative study is a collaboration with the York Travellers Trust (YTT), LeedsGate and Care for Young Peoples’ Futures (CYPF). It explores understandings of cancer symptoms, risks, screening and prevention among GTR communities, by using a short household questionnaire, focus group discussions and individual interviews. We will also speak to healthcare practitioners to understand more about what is likely to work for GTR communities. Our analysis will focus on identifying the factors that could improve cancer screening services, which along with community consultations, will inform the production of two toolkits for (i) community members and (ii) healthcare practitioners.
In producing the two toolkits the research will use a participatory approach led by our voluntary sector partners. Our main objective is to reduce overall inequality in cancer outcomes faced by GTR communities by (a) creating an evidence base for developing care and (b) introducing a social intervention for improving early diagnosis. Our participatory approach ensures that our community partners are involved in the implementation and evaluation of the toolkits. This will increase the likelihood that impact will continue after the project formally ends.
REC name
West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/WM/0118
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion