The experiences of people diagnosed with severe mental illness and colorectal cancer: A qualitative study

Objectives There is evidence that people with severe mental illness (SMI) are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage and die earlier from colorectal cancer (CRC). The purpose of this study is to understand the barriers to effective CRC diagnosis and treatment for this group. Methods Five people (four people diagnosed with CRC and SMI and one carer for a person in this group) participated in interviews about their experience of CRC diagnosis and treatment. Interviews were analysed using NVivo to identify key themes. Results We identified four key themes: diagnostic overshadowing, fear, practical access and interpersonal partnerships. Conclusions Participants in this study were less likely to have their healthcare needs met because of discrimination and unmet needs associated with their diagnosis of SMI. This is not a new finding – many other mental and physical health researchers have identified this problem. But this study enables people who have lived through the challenge of this experience to share their perspective. Consequently, we recommend that future research focus on practical strategies to minimise discrimination among health professionals and policymakers and identify solutions to address the disproportionate barriers people diagnosed with SMI encounter regarding CRC testing.