Strengthening Clinical Cancer Research in the UK
Author Information
Author(s): Stead M, Cameron D, Lester N, Parmar M, Haward R, Kaplan R, Maughan T, Wilson R, Campbell H, Hamilton R, Stewart D, O'Toole L, Kerr D, Potts V, Moser R, Darbyshire J, Selby P
Primary Institution: National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network Coordinating Centre, Leeds, UK
Hypothesis
Increasing research activity might improve cancer outcomes and reduce variability across England.
Conclusion
The coordinated approach to cancer clinical research has led to increased patient recruitment and improved trial delivery, which should enhance patient outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Patient recruitment increased through NCRN, with almost 32,000 cancer patients being recruited each year.
- Study delivery improved, with 74% of studies meeting recruitment targets after NCRN was established.
Takeaway
This study shows that by working together, hospitals can help more cancer patients join research studies, which can lead to better treatments.
Methodology
The study compared patient recruitment and trial delivery before and after the establishment of the National Cancer Research Network (NCRN) in 2001.
Limitations
The study does not quantify the exact contribution of NCRN to improved patient outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Cancer patients across the UK.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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