A study of the follow-up priorities of colorectal cancer survivors from ethnic minority groups

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide, with survival rates improving in recent years. However, survivors often face ongoing physical, psychosocial, and financial challenges long after treatment. It is common clinical practice to monitor patients for several years after treatment for CRC with curative intent. The focus of follow-up is on the detection of recurrent or metastatic disease and wider holistic needs. This study explores the priorities for follow-up care in diverse groups, who have completed CRC treatment and are undergoing their follow-up care in the UK. The study involved n=19 participants (n=14 males and n=5 females) from ethnic minority groups inclusive of newly arrived migrants and non-English language speakers (n=4), all treated for CRC with curative intent and in the follow-up phase of care. Participants were recruited from two hospitals in different regions of England. The methodological approach was a narrative approach that aimed to enable participants to share their experience. Semi-structured interviews were conducted over the phone or face to face depending on the preference of the participants transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Translation services were used as required for non-English speakers. Five key themes were identified through data analysis: 1. The impact of diagnosis and treatment, in particular the impact of this on social and financial wellbeing along with the physical and psychological consequences. Social isolation experienced by some participants was evident through this theme and others. 2. The importance of communication throughout treatment and beyond, with the need for effective translation services being a strong subtheme. 3. The experience of follow-up and the preferred approach to follow-up, in particular the importance of the nurse patient relationship and a strong preference for face-to-face follow-up. Stoicism and a reluctance to ask for care or information was evident. 4. Sources of support with subthemes of the importance of faith, family, and views of cancer charities. 5. The role of culture and ethnicity with a wish from some participants to give back to their own communities through sharing their experiences. In addition, for some participants there was a strong sense of gratitude and wish to acknowledge they may not have been able to access the same treatment and care in their country of origin. The study highlights the specific needs of CRC survivors from ethnic minority groups inclusive of newly arrived migrants and non-English language speakers. It underscores the importance of maintaining availability of face-to-face contact with Clinical Nurse Specialists for these groups and of providing professional translation services, to ensure inclusive care. The study concludes with a proposed Care Delivery Framework to improve the follow-up experience for those from ethnic minority groups, inclusive of newly arrived migrants and non-English language speakers and potentially for other CRC survivors.

Grantor dc:publisher

Oxford Brookes University

Author dc:creator

• Coughlan, Claire

Contributors dc:contributor

• Alexis, Obrey
• Watson, Eila
• Matheson, Lauren

Statement dc:rights

• All rights reserved

Language dc:language

en

DOI dc:identifier

https://doi.org/10.24384/t1kt-8b32

OAI identifier oai:identifier

tle:8289bf65-62a1-467e-909e-27a781e12b29:d6bd9758-527a-46cd-bfe2-c433766e8fca:1