The impact of language on public understanding and patient experience of head and neck cancers

We invite applications for a full-time PhD studentship funded jointly by ORACLE Head & Neck Cancer UK and the University of Sheffield and supervised by Professor Sue Sherman. This 3.5 year project explores the impact of language on public understanding and patient experience of head and neck cancers and will be informed by work with patient and clinical representatives.

Background:

The term ‘head and neck cancer’ covers various types of cancers which occur at different places, and which may have different causes and symptoms. Due to the use of different words to describe the specific cancers such as laryngeal, nasopharyngeal and tonsil, there is considerable confusion in the public about what exactly head and neck cancers are, what steps to take to avoid them, and what symptoms to look out for. Furthermore, when patients are diagnosed with one of these cancers, the technical and unfamiliar language used may make it harder to access support, and for friends and family to understand and provide support. For some head and neck cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection, this problem can be further exacerbated.

Project details:

This project explores these issues as follows. 

1. The first half focuses on public understanding by conducting an analysis of social media posts about head and neck cancers to understand how people talk about them and any misunderstandings that may arise. A survey will be used to further understand public knowledge by exploring understanding of key terms, risk factors, and symptoms. 

2. The second half focuses on the needs of patients, by exploring the experiences of clinicians in communicating about these cancers using a survey, and by using focus groups and interviews to understand the experiences of patients in receiving the news and help seeking and of family members in supporting loved ones. 

Anticipated impact:

The research will lead to evidence-based recommendations for changes to communication to the public and patients as well as academic papers to inform further research beyond the project.

Entry requirements:

Minimum 2.1 undergraduate honours degree and an MSc in Psychology, Public Health, or a related subject. However, if an applicant has extensive research methods experience, or other related experience, an MSc may not be necessary. 

For more information, please contact Sue Sherman at susan.sherman@sheffield.ac.uk. 

All applications to be made online via the Postgraduate Application System – https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying

Please note that we anticipate that interviews will take place week commencing 6th January. The PhD will start on 1st March 2025.