Evidence Library

Abstract:

Aim: To explore the views people affected by cancer have about research and to identify their research priorities.

Methods: People affected by cancer were asked about their views on research through focus groups held across the UK. A participatory approach was used to involve patients and carers in the design and conduct of the study. Some also received training and support to co-facilitate the focus groups and analyse the data.

Findings: Working with a reference group of patients and carers had a positive impact on the design of the study, the plans for feedback for participants in the study, the recruitment strategy, the patient information sheet and the questions asked at the focus group meetings. Involving patients and carers as co-researchers also greatly improved the effectiveness of the focus group discussions. The participatory approach thus strengthened the relevance and appropriateness of the research findings and methods.

External link: The following links will take you to information on this entry on an external website. INVOLVE is not responsible for the content or the reliability of the external websites. Link to PubMed abstract

Related entry: none currently available

Categories: health
Identifying topics, prioritising and commissioning
Designing research
Undertaking research
Analysing and interpreting
impact on research
impact on research ethics
impact on service users involved
impact of public involvement
journal article

Date Entered: 2007/02/20