School of Rural Medicine
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Young-onset colorectal cancer (diagnosed under the age of 50) is increasing in Australia. However, early diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in rural and regional communities where access to diagnostic services may be limited and symptoms may initially be attributed to less serious conditions. Many younger patients experience delays between first noticing symptoms and receiving a diagnosis, which can result in more advanced disease and more complex treatment.
This study aims to explore the experiences of people diagnosed with young-onset colorectal cancer who were living in rural or regional New South Wales at the time their symptoms began. Through one-on-one interviews, participants will be invited to share their experiences of recognising symptoms, seeking medical care, interactions with healthcare providers, access to diagnostic services such as colonoscopy, and the impact of any delays in diagnosis and surgical management.
By capturing patient perspectives, this research aims to identify common barriers and missed opportunities in the diagnostic pathway. The findings may help inform strategies to improve earlier recognition of colorectal cancer in younger people and support improvements in referral pathways and access to diagnostic services for rural and regional Australians.
Mrs Nayma Bilal - 4th Year Medicine Student, School of Rural Medicine, Charles Sturt University (CSU)
Dr Catherine Keniry, PhD - Director of Research and Evaluation, School of Rural Medicine, Charles Sturt University
Dr Robert Knox - Head of Surgery and General Surgeon at Orange Hospital, FRACS, MBBS
The study aims to better understand patient experiences leading up to
diagnosis, including:
* symptoms experienced
* time taken to receive a diagnosis
* access to GPs, colonoscopy, and specialists
* challenges related to distance, travel, or referral pathways
Your experience can help improve earlier diagnosis and care for future patients in rural communities, and help prevent further complications
from the disease.
* Anyone diagnosed with colorectal (bowel) cancer before age 50
* Lived in a rural or regional area of NSW at the time of diagnosis
* Aged 18 years or older at time of interview
* Are able to participate in an English-language interview
* Are willing to share their experiences of the journey from first symptoms through to diagnosis and treatment
* Complete a short online expression of interest form
* Fill out a small questionnaire about your cancer journey
* One confidential online interview (40–60 minutes)
* You may skip any question you are not comfortable answering
For more information and to continue with your interest in participating in this project, please download and read the participant information sheet. This will provide a link at the end for you to register your interest.
The information provided will remain confidential and consent can be withdrawn at anytime. Please note we will not require any information that identifies your workplace.