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Evidence-practice gaps in lung cancer: A scoping review
N M Rankin1, D McGregor1,2, E Stone1,3
1Sydney Catalyst Translational Cancer Research Center, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
European Journal of Cancer Care
|October 14, 2016
Summary
Timely lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often delayed, with curative and palliative care underused. Variations in care are linked to patient factors and healthcare organization, not just disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Healthcare Management
- Public Health
Background:
- Lung cancer presents a major global health challenge.
- Improving patient outcomes requires aligning clinical practice with evidence-based guidelines.
- Evidence-practice gaps hinder optimal lung cancer care delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify evidence-practice gaps in the lung cancer care pathway.
- To describe variations in the diagnosis and management of lung cancer.
- To inform strategies for improving lung cancer treatment and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review methodology was employed.
- Searches were conducted in Medline, PsychInfo, Cinahl, and the Cochrane Library for studies published 2008-2012.
- Sixty-five articles met inclusion criteria from 614 screened.
Main Results:
- Seven key evidence-practice gaps were identified, including diagnostic delays, underutilization of curative and palliative treatments, and unmet psychosocial needs.
- Older age and comorbidities influenced treatment utilization.
- Multidisciplinary team review and early palliative care referral were not universally accessible.
Conclusions:
- Significant challenges exist in timely lung cancer diagnosis and referral.
- Curative treatments, palliative care, and psychosocial support are underutilized.
- Care variations are associated with patient characteristics, provider practices, and healthcare organization, necessitating targeted interventions.
