The programme, entitled DISCOVERY (DIagnosis of Symptomatic Cancer), will be led by the University of Bristol, with four University partners – Durham, Cambridge, Oxford and Cardiff – and NHS Bristol.

The programme aims to improve cancer diagnosis through six interlinked projects.  It will consider the issue from the patients’ aspect (why they do or do not attend surgery with a symptom) and the GPs’ aspect (what is the risk of cancer when a symptom is mentioned?), and will examine what is the optimum method of organising investigations for suspected cancer.

It will also look at wider systemic questions such as what are current referral patterns; what level of risk needs rapid investigation, and how can the system be improved, both from an economic and a societal perspective?

Dr Willie Hamilton of Bristol’s Department of Community Based Medicine  said: “We are delighted to have receive this grant as it builds on the strengths of all the partner universities.  It is very rewarding to work in the field of cancer diagnosis as the patient benefits of such research are so immediately tangible.”

Professor Greg Rubin of Durham University’s School of Medicine and Health said: “This grant reflects the importance attached by the NHS, through its Cancer Reform Strategy, to achieving earlier diagnosis of cancer. Throughout this research programme we will be working closely with those responsible for improving cancer services.”

Dr Richard Neal of the Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Cardiff University’s School of Medicine said: "This is the first programme grant in the area of early diagnosis of cancer, and it is very exciting as findings from the studies will directly impact upon clinical practice and health policy."

The project begins in January 2010 and will run for five years.