The TACTIC Study is exploring how delays in treatment affect outcomes for people diagnosed with bowel, breast, lung, and oesophageal cancers. By bringing together experts, clinicians, and patient voices, the study will identify practical ways to reduce delays and improve care.
Running for three and a half years from summer 2025, the project is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).
The project will investigate:
- Which types of cancer are likely to have worse outcomes if treatment is delayed?
- Why do treatment delays happen?
- What can we learn from hospitals that are doing better?
- How can treatment pathways and care systems be improved so that more patients can have access in good time to cancer treatments once diagnosed?
What’s involved?
Panel members will meet several times a year between 2026 and 2028. These sessions will give you the chance to:
- Hear updates on the study
- Ask questions and share your views
- Provide feedback on research activities and materials
- Take part in discussions and idea-generation sessions
You may be asked to review presentations, comment on draft materials, or collaborate with researchers and other panel members.
You’ll also have access to a dedicated online space within the TACTIC platform, where you can follow progress, join discussions, and connect with others involved.
Meetings will be a mix of in-person and virtual sessions, designed to be interactive and inclusive. They’ll be led by researchers alongside patient representatives, and support can be arranged if needed.
Who can take part?
The research team is looking for anyone with experience of cancer. This could include:
- People who have received a diagnosis
- Friends, family members, or carers supporting someone with cancer
You don’t need experience of bowel, breast, lung, or oesophageal cancer specifically, and no prior research experience is required. What matters most is your interest in the project and your willingness to share your perspective.
Will I be paid?
The team is unable to offer payment but will provide gift cards as a thank you for your time and contributions (for example, for each meeting attended).
They will also cover reasonable expenses to support your involvement, such as travel, childcare, or any additional needs like translation services.
How to join
If you’re interested in taking part, please get in touch with PPI Lead, Yuki Alencar on Yuki.Alencar@LSHTM.ac.uk.
Alternatively, click here for more details.