Interventions targeting delays in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer

Delays in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer are strongly associated with advanced disease and poor survival. In England, NHS data show that mouth cancer diagnoses have risen to over 10,000 new cases annually, an increase of 38% over the past decade, with more than half of oral cancers diagnosed at stage III or IV. This project will contribute to a systematic review exploring interventions that target diagnostic and treatment delays, aimed at improving early diagnosis and survival outcomes. The student will be introduced to evidence synthesis methods and supported by a supervisory team with expertise in conducting systematic reviews. The project will involve developing and registering a review protocol, designing a comprehensive search strategy, screening titles, abstracts, and full-text articles using systematic review software, and undertaking data extraction and synthesis in line with established guidance. The student will become part of the Cancer Awareness, Screening and Diagnostic Pathway group at the University of Hull. Students will need to find their own accommodation and be expected to present their findings orally at a research day in York on 08th September 2026.