Strategic Issues
Strategic Issue 1
Many cancers are linked to modifiable risk factors (e.g. UV exposure, smoking, alcohol), suggesting a need for intensified public health campaigns and screening. From 2021 to 2022 there has been a rise in the 5-year prevalence of cancers: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Prostate, Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Colorectal. Whilst Breast Cancer prevalence has reduced it is still in the top 5 highest prevalent sites in Hartlepool.
Strategic Issue 2
There is limited education for residents on early signs & symptoms and when/where to access diagnostic services, particularly those in areas of high deprivation and lower educational attainment where health literacy may be poor.
Significant increases in Basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma 5-year prevalence and increases in prostate and colorectal cancer highlight an urgent need for earlier detection and targeted prevention strategies.
Strategic Issue 3
There is very little granular data which creates a barrier to service access by a lack of knowledge to where services and health promotion should be situated within the Borough. Data-driven targeting can be used to reach high risk groups.
Strategic Issue 4
Screening is lower than the ICB region and nation coverage for many programmes suggesting barriers exist. Hartlepool Health PCN has low rates of screening for Breast and Bowel cancers