First results from five multidisciplinary diagnostic centre (MDC) projects for non-specific but concerning symptoms, possibly indicative of cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Patients with non-specific symptoms often experience longer times to diagnosis and poorer clinical outcomes than those with site-specific symptoms. This paper reports initial results from five multidisciplinary diagnostic centre (MDC) projects in England, piloting rapid referral for patients with non-specific symptoms.

Methods

The evaluation covered MDC activity from 1st December 2016 to 31st July 2018, with projects using a common dataset. Logistical regression analyses were conducted, with a diagnosis of any cancer as the dependent variable. Exploratory analysis was conducted on presenting symptoms and diagnoses of cancer, and on comparisons within these groupings.

Results

In total, 2961 patients were referred into the MDCs and 241 cancers were diagnosed.

SUBMITTER: Chapman D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7462853 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature