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project details

Follow-up of Cutaneous SCC (FOCS)

Women’s College Hospital
23 Sites
BC, AB, ON

Drs. Nicole Hawkins

Position: Member

A multicentre study of follow-up practices for patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Due to a lack of evidence and diverse recommendations across organizations including the AAD and BAD, there is likely substantial variability amongst dermatologist practices. As such, we hope to better understand the practice patterns amongst Canadian dermatologists to help establish the baseline landscape and identify opportunities for improvement. Study objectives are outlined below. We currently have over 10 community and academic dermatologists from across Canada involved in this project.

Study Aims and Hypotheses:

a) To characterize the practice patterns for follow up of immunocompetent patients by dermatologists after a diagnosis of primary invasive cutaneous SCC.

Hypothesis: Variation will be seen in the frequency and duration of follow-up.

b) To identify factors associated with the time to the first follow-up skin exam after SCC diagnosis.

Hypothesis: Patients who are at higher risk of recurrence, metastasis, or additional skin cancers (older age, advanced tumour stage) will be followed more frequently for skin exam.

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