Cancer Screening Data Integration in the NHS: Challenges and Solutions
Loading...
All Authors
Hossini, Parastoo
Itua, Imose
LTHT Author
Hossini, Parastoo
LTHT Department
Oncology
Non Medic
Clinical Trials Assistant
Publication Date
2025-07-10
Item Type
Conference Abstract
Language
en
Subject
Subject Headings
data
cancer
data integration
data sharing
digital transformation
cancer
data integration
data sharing
digital transformation
Abstract
Background:
Cancer screening plays a critical role in early detection and reducing mortality rates, yet fragmented NHS data systems create challenges in tracking screening participation and patient outcomes. Data silos between primary care (GPs) and secondary care (hospitals) limit effective monitoring, making it difficult to optimize screening programs and reduce health disparities. Strengthening data integration, interoperability, and governance is essential for improving screening participation and enhancing cancer prevention efforts.
Aims:
This study aims to assess the feasibility of integrating cancer screening data within NHS systems, identify barriers to data-sharing, and propose policy-driven and technological solutions to improve data interoperability, research capabilities, and patient outcomes.
Methods:
A qualitative and policy analysis approach was used, including:
• Stakeholder engagement with NHS data teams (Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board).
• Assessment of NHS IT infrastructure, focusing on interoperability challenges between SystmOne (GPs) and PPM+ (hospitals).
• Review of data governance policies, including IRAS approvals, GDPR compliance, and Caldicott Guardian regulations.
• Comparative analysis of international data integration models (e.g., Germany’s DIFUTURE, Sweden’s eHealth, U.S. Cancer Moonshot Program).
Results:
• Cancer screening data in NHS is highly fragmented, limiting patient tracking and screening program evaluation.
• Data governance restrictions (e.g., lack of cross-institutional data-sharing agreements) create barriers to research access.
• Interoperability challenges due to the absence of standardized frameworks (HL7 FHIR, SNOMED-CT, DICOM) hinder seamless data exchange.
• AI and digital health solutions (e.g., wearable technologies, cloud-based repositories) present opportunities for improving screening participation and early detection.
Conclusion:
The study highlights urgent need for NHS-wide data integration strategies to enhance cancer screening effectiveness, research accessibility, and patient care. Adopting standardized interoperability frameworks, strengthening data-sharing agreements, and leveraging AI-driven analytics could significantly improve screening participation and reduce health disparities. These findings have important implications for public health planning, digital transformation within NHS, and future cancer prevention strategies.