Understanding Diagnostic Delays in Oral Cancer: A Qualitative Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding Diagnostic Delays in Oral Cancer: A Qualitative Exploration using the Pathways to Treatment Model in North-East England.
IRAS ID
362011
Contact name
Emmanuel Kwateng Drokow
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Teesside University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, days
Research summary
Oral cancer is a serious but often overlooked health problem. Every year in the UK, thousands of people are diagnosed, and survival is strongly linked to how early the cancer is found. If the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, treatment is usually simpler and more effective, but if diagnosis is delayed, survival rates drop and treatment can be more complex and life‑changing.
This study will explore why oral cancer is often diagnosed late, particularly in North‑East England, where oral cancer rates and health inequalities are higher than the national average. Early signs of oral cancer, such as mouth ulcers that do not heal, lumps, or white and red patches, are sometimes mistaken for minor problems. People may delay seeking help, and healthcare professionals may also face challenges in recognising and referring cases quickly.
To understand these issues, the study will interview two groups:
i. Patients recently diagnosed with oral cancer, to explore how they noticed and responded to symptoms and how they experienced the journey to diagnosis.
ii. Healthcare professionals, including GPs and dentists, to understand how they identify, assess, and refer patients with possible oral cancer.The study uses a qualitative approach, meaning it will focus on participants’ personal experiences and perspectives. By understanding the real‑life reasons for delays from both patient and professional viewpoints, the research will identify where improvements can be made in public awareness, clinical practice, and healthcare systems.
The results will be shared with local NHS services, policymakers, and oral health organisations to help reduce diagnostic delays, improve early detection, and ultimately save lives and improve quality of life for people at risk of oral cancer.
REC name
HSC REC B
REC reference
25/NI/0150
Date of REC Opinion
5 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion