Symptom appraisal and healthcare-seeking for symptoms suggestive of colorectal cancer: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives: Timely diagnosis of colorectal cancer is important to improve survival. This study explored symptom appraisal and help-seeking among patients referred to specialist services with symptoms of colorectal cancer. Design: Qualitative in-depth interview study. Setting and participants: Participants were recruited on referral to gastroenterology clinics (North East and East of England); interviews were conducted soon after referral. We purposively sampled participants to ensure a range of accounts in terms of age, sex, diagnosis and geographical location. Methods: Data collection and analysis were underpinned by the Model of Pathways to Treatment. Framework analysis was used to explore..