Understanding and improving support for multimorbidities in the head and neck cancer management pathway
Supervisors:
Prof David Conway, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing (University of Glasgow)
Dr Alex McMahon, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing (University of Glasgow)
Dr Marie Murphy, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing (University of Glasgow)
Dr Stefan Serban, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing (University of Glasgow)
Summary:
Head and neck cancers (HNC) incidence is rising and survival has not improved in decades. Stark health inequalities persist with worse outcomes among those from the most socioeconomically deprived backgrounds. Co-existing multiple long-term conditions and poor oral health likely contribute to poor outcomes but have yet to be assessed in detail.
This mixed-methods PhD combines: 1) epidemiological analyses of cohorts (~3,500 patients with HNC) from West of Scotland and the Head and Neck Cancer in South America and Europe (HEADSpAcE) consortium databases to assess the burden/impact of multimorbidities on HNC outcomes; 2) qualitative research involving semi-structured interviews to explore HNC patient/carer, and clinician perspectives on healthcare experiences of managing multimorbidities and exploring opportunities to improve treatment support; and 3) participatory research to synthesise epidemiological and qualitative findings and develop recommendations for supportive care pathways for additional long-term conditions.
This project was developed with patient and clinician input and the successful candidate will be supported by an interdisciplinary supervisory team, clinical mentors, and a PPI network.
The successful candidate will be based within the University of Glasgow Dental School among a vibrant group of ~20 PhD students. The University provides diverse research/skills training to equip PhD students with essential postgraduate attributes.