Interventions to Improve Timely Detection and Diagnosis of Cancer Among the Adult Population: A Scoping Review

This scoping review aimed to identify and evaluate interventions to improve timely detection and diagnosis of lung, ovarian, stomach, and pancreatic cancers among adults. Understanding the effectiveness of these interventions is important for improving cancer care and patient outcomes.

A scoping review was conducted following the JBI framework and the PRISMA-ScR Checklist to identify empirical studies reporting interventions focused on lung, stomach, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. A systematic literature search was performed in three databases (CINAHL, Embase, and Medline). Supplementary searches included citation tracking. English-language empirical studies examining interventions for early cancer detection in adults were included. Open Science Framework was used to register the scoping review protocol (accessed on 11 July 2024).

Of 13,142 retrieved citations, 12 articles met the inclusion criteria. Studies were conducted in the UK (n = 6), Australia (n = 2), Northern Ireland (n = 1), Denmark (n = 1), and the USA (n = 2). Interventions included awareness campaigns, educational programmes, and improved access to health services. Interactive formats and clear messaging increased awareness and help-seeking behaviour. Integrated approaches combining public awareness campaigns with general practitioner educational programmes were associated with promoting timely diagnosis and improving survival rates. Tailored interventions targeting populations such as rural residents and long-term smokers enhanced effectiveness.

The review highlights the importance of integrated strategies to improve early cancer detection and diagnosis. Three intervention types were identified: awareness campaigns, educational programmes, and direct access to health services. Future interventions should consider longer campaign durations and tailored approaches for demographic groups, particularly populations in deprived areas, to improve effectiveness.