Views and experience of cancer screening
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding uptake of cancer screening by people living with a diagnosis of mental illness
IRAS ID
158104
Contact name
Elizabeth Barley
Contact email
Research summary
Background: People living with a diagnosis of mental illness are 3 times more likely than the general population to die from cancer once diagnosed. Mortality can be reduced through early detection via cancer screening. Evidence suggests that cancer screening uptake may be low in people living with a diagnosis of mental illness. This study will explore the barriers and facilitators for cancer screening uptake among people living with a diagnosis of mental illness.
Methods: Qualitative interview study of people living with a diagnosis of mental illness managed in primary and secondary care and of primary and secondary care professionals involved in screening processes and mental health care. Participants will be recruited from inner city, suburban and rural locations to explore the effect of location on screening delivery. Participants eligible for the three national cancer screening programmes (breast, bowel, cervical) and with experience of uptake and non-uptake (opted out or who are classified as ‘excluded’ due to multiple non-response / non-attendance) will be recruited.
Findings: The findings will inform a special enquiry (Public Health England) into cancer screening uptake in people living with a diagnosis of mental illness and future changes to services.REC name
London - London Bridge Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1511
Date of REC Opinion
1 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion