Increasing uptake of FIT colorectal screening: protocol for the TEMPO randomised controlled trial testing a suggested deadline and a planning tool

Robb, K. A. et al. (2023) Increasing uptake of FIT colorectal screening: protocol for the TEMPO randomised controlled trial testing a suggested deadline and a planning tool. BMJ Open, 13(5), e066136. (doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066136) (PMID:37202130) (PMCID:PMC10201271)

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Abstract

Introduction: Screening can reduce deaths from colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite high levels of public enthusiasm, participation rates in population CRC screening programmes internationally remain persistently below target levels. Simple behavioural interventions such as completion goals and planning tools may support participation among those inclined to be screened but who fail to act on their intentions. This study aims to evaluate the impact of: (a) a suggested deadline for return of the test; (b) a planning tool and (c) the combination of a deadline and planning tool on return of faecal immunochemical tests (FITs) for CRC screening. Methods and analysis: A randomised controlled trial of 40 000 adults invited to participate in the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme will assess the individual and combined impact of the interventions. Trial delivery will be integrated into the existing CRC screening process. The Scottish Bowel Screening Programme mails FITs to people aged 50–74 with brief instructions for completion and return. Participants will be randomised to one of eight groups: (1) no intervention; (2) suggested deadline (1 week); (3) suggested deadline (2 weeks); (4) suggested deadline (4 weeks); (5) planning tool; (6) planning tool plus suggested deadline (1 week); (7) planning tool plus suggested deadline (2 weeks); (8) planning tool plus suggested deadline (4 weeks). The primary outcome is return of the correctly completed FIT at 3 months. To understand the cognitive and behavioural mechanisms and to explore the acceptability of both interventions, we will survey (n=2000) and interview (n=40) a subgroup of trial participants. Ethics and dissemination: The study has been approved by the National Health Service South Central—Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee (ref. 19/SC/0369). The findings will be disseminated through conference presentations and publication in peer-reviewed journals. Participants can request a summary of the results. Trial registration number: clinicaltrials.govNCT05408169.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Young, Dr Ben and McConnachie, Professor Alex and Mccowan, Professor Colin and O'Carroll, Prof Ronan and Kotzur, Dr Marie and Robb, Professor Katie and O'Connor, Professor Rory and Macdonald, Professor Sara
Authors: Robb, K. A., Kotzur, M., Young, B., McCowan, C., Hollands, G. J., Irvine, A., Macdonald, S., McConnachie, A., O'Carroll, R. E., O'Connor, R. C., and Steele, R. J.C.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Robertson Centre
Journal Name:BMJ Open
Publisher:BMJ Publishing Group
ISSN:2044-6055
ISSN (Online):2044-6055
Published Online:18 May 2023
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2023 The Authors
First Published:First published in BMJ Open 13(5): e066136
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
304593Increasing Uptake of FIT bowel screening: trial of providing a deadline for FIT kit returnKathryn RobbCancer Research UK (CRUK)C9227/A27877HW - Mental Health and Wellbeing
300434Increasing Uptake Of Bowel Cancer Screening: Development And Trial Of A FIT Planning Support ToolKathryn RobbOffice of the Chief Scientific Adviser (CSO)HIPS/17/23HW - General Practice and Primary Care