Colorectal Cancer Survival Rates in Europe
Author Information
Author(s): Woodman C B J, Gibbs A, Scott N, Haboubi N Y, Collins S
Primary Institution: Centre for Cancer Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Christie Hospital NHS Trust
Hypothesis
Are differences in stage at presentation a credible explanation for reported differences in the survival of patients with colorectal cancer in Europe?
Conclusion
The poor survival rates reported for the UK can largely be explained by more advanced stage at presentation.
Supporting Evidence
- Popular reporting has created an impression of inadequate treatment of patients in the UK.
- The NHS cancer plan aims for the UK to achieve parity with the best cancer care in Europe.
Takeaway
This study looks at why cancer survival rates in the UK seem worse than in other European countries, suggesting it's because patients are diagnosed at a later stage.
Limitations
The study illustrates methodological difficulties in international comparisons of cancer survival rates.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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