Variation in diagnostics, treatment, and prognosis for patients with cancer in Denmark

During the last decades, the quality of cancer treatment in Denmark has advanced in terms of waiting time for diagnostics and treatment, which has improved the prognosis and survival for many cancer types. Although there is equal access to high-quality health care in Denmark, variation in the clinical quality of cancer care in the Danish healthcare system has been demonstrated. Such variation can lead to unwanted differences in time to diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and survival after cancer across the country.

In this research program, we have established a complex nationwide dataset based on linked data from multiple administrative registers and databases. These data can be used to investigate the reasons and consequences of variation in clinical quality in cancer, as well as other topics of importance to the cancer patients. The aim of these studies is to explore the variation in risk, diagnostics, treatment, and prognosis for cancer patients in Denmark. The studies can point to areas where the clinical quality can be improved and where early detection and treatment can be optimized.

The studies can be conducted with new epidemiological and biostatistical methods that contribute to ensuring reliable research results. The results of our studies are central to elucidate challenges in the healthcare system regarding ​​cancer and cancer treatment. The studies may identify new perspectives to improve cancer detection, treatment quality, patient safety, patient progress and prognosis. The results will contribute with information that can be used for prioritizing and planning healthcare services and monitoring of the consequences of changes in practice.

The research program is supported with funds, including the Danish Cancer Society.