Understanding how cancer is diagnosed in emergency rooms and the disparities involved
Diagnosis of Cancer in the Emergency Room - Explaining Persistent Disparities
This study looks at why some people, especially those from less advantaged backgrounds, find out they have cancer in emergency rooms instead of regular doctor visits, and it aims to improve how emergency doctors are trained to help these patients better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10887453 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the diagnosis of cancer in emergency departments (EDs) and aims to understand why many patients, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receive their cancer diagnosis in these settings. The study will analyze data to identify the burden of cancer diagnoses made in EDs compared to other healthcare settings, focusing on factors such as race, income, and access to follow-up care. By examining these disparities, the research seeks to improve the training of ED physicians and enhance patient outcomes through better management and referral processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients who have been diagnosed with cancer in an emergency department, especially those from low-income or racial/ethnic minority backgrounds.
Not a fit: Patients who have been diagnosed with cancer in non-emergency settings may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer diagnosis and treatment pathways for patients, particularly those from underserved communities.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on emergency cancer diagnoses in the U.S., studies from other countries have shown significant disparities and outcomes, indicating that this area is ripe for exploration.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Caroline Avery — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Caroline Avery
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.