TH3.1 Implementation of a home finger-prick CEA test for follow-up of colorectal cancer - a pilot study of patient perspectives. (9th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Quinn, Marcus; Reilly, Annie; Niewdach, Emma; Rodgers, Sam; Pullyblank, Anne
• Is Part Of: British journal of surgery. Volume 109(2022)Supplement 5
• Publication Date: 2022-08-09
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znac248.207
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: NICE guidance advocates 6 monthly CEA blood testing following curative colorectal resection. This usually takes place through face to face appointments with a phlebotomist, with associated monetary and resource cost to local services, as well as impacting on patient lives. This project piloted use of self-taken finger-prick blood tests in this patient population, to assess feasibility, patient perspectives and preferences. Methods: During colorectal outpatient clinics, patients undergoing face to face CEA surveillance in primary care were offered postal finger-prick assessment. Recruitment stopped once 50 patients had been recruited. Recruited patients were sent finger-prick blood testing kits with pre-paid return packaging. Follow-up questionnaires were undertaken to assess patient perspectives and future preferences. Results: 67.6% (50/74) of eligible patients agreed to participate. 76.0% (38/50) of patients successfully completed finger-prick CEA assessment. 46.8% (22/47) of patients felt they would prefer finger-prick rather than phlebotomy for future CEA testing, whilst 19.1% (9/47) had no preference. 38.3% (18/47) patients felt finger-prick testing was worse than their previous experience. No significant differences in preference existed between patients aged <65 and 65+. Qualitative data showed difficulties with pain, discomfort and sample collection. Patients felt that finger-prick samples were convenient and easier to fit in with their lives. Conclusions: Whilst some patients prefer finger-prick CEA assessment, there are significant numbers for whom it is challenging, unnecessary or less preferable. Finger-prick CEA testing may represent a future strategy for reducing burden of follow-up blood tests on resources, but this would currently be acceptable only to limited patient groups.