Improving outcomes in cancer diagnosis and research

Improving outcomes in cancer diagnosis and research

A team of researchers based at the University of Waikato believe that involving primary care can help improve outcomes and reduce inequity from cancer.

Speaking at a National Institute of Demographic and Economic Analysis (NIDEA) seminar, Professor of Population Health Ross Lawrenson outlined his team’s study on the role of primary care in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The Midlands Cancer Study looked at patients with prostate and breast cancer in the Midland region and found that there was a disparity in provision of primary care and the diagnosis and outcomes of cancer between Māori and non-Māori.

The findings
With regards prostate cancer, Professor Lawrenson said that of the 36,000 men they looked at, aged 40 and over, Māori men were more likely to be diagnosed with late stage cancer than non-Māori men.

“The statistics showed that Māori get tested or screened for prostate cancer less than non-Māori – at a rate of about 50% less, and those that have been tested and found to have elevated PSA levels are less likely to be referred to a specialist and biopsied,” he says.

“And that can be down to a number of factors, but it can largely be attributed to the interaction with their primary health provider.”

Similar findings also emerged with Māori women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Māori women were less likely to be diagnosed through breast screening and were more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer than non-Māori. Only 50% of Māori women who were diagnosed with breast cancer were identified through the screening programme, as opposed to 64% of New Zealand European women.

“Māori women experience significantly worse breast cancer mortality compared with European women.

“Compared with New Zealand European women, Māori experienced significantly higher rates of advanced and higher grade cancers. The later detection of cancer in Māori explained a greater portion of their excess breast cancer mortality,” says Professor Lawrenson.

Cancer in primary care
Professor Lawrenson says the role of primary care in cancer is concerned with prevention, early diagnosis, treatment support and monitoring, and palliative care.

“Primary care has a lot to offer in cancer diagnosis and treatment, and the aim of our research was to help improve outcomes and reduce inequity from cancer by concentrating on the contribution that can be made through primary care.

“And from our research, we’ve noted the variations in primary care and the opportunities for improving health outcomes – such as improving access for GPs to diagnostic services and improving health literacy through better information for patients.”

ENDS

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