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J. Solomon
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P2.06 - Epidemiology/Primary Prevention/Tobacco Control and Cessation (ID 707)
- Event: WCLC 2017
- Type: Poster Session with Presenters Present
- Track: Epidemiology/Primary Prevention/Tobacco Control and Cessation
- Presentations: 1
- Moderators:
- Coordinates: 10/17/2017, 09:30 - 16:00, Exhibit Hall (Hall B + C)
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P2.06-005 - An Exploration of Attitudes and Barriers to Uptake of Lung Cancer Screening in at Risk Adults in the United Kingdom (ID 9103)
09:30 - 09:30 | Author(s): J. Solomon
- Abstract
Background:
Lung cancer screening targets a high risk subgroup of the population, comprising current and ex-smokers. There are data to suggest that smokers view screening in a nihilistic way and perceive early detection to be of limited use and, as such, are less likely to consider screening participation. Other screening programmes have also shown markedly reduced uptake in those from the most deprived groups. Smoking rates and lung cancer incidence are highest in more socially deprived areas and lung cancer survival is worst in this group. An understanding of the key barriers to engagement with lung cancer screening is therefore vital prior to implementation of a national screening programme.
Method:
Focus groups were established in socially deprived communities within the East Midlands, United Kingdom, using community contacts. The Framework approach was used to analyse data into themes and sub-themes. To supplement these focus groups, questionnaires were developed and purposive sampling used to try to obtain a maximum number of views from a cross-section of the deprived communities. Participants were smokers or ex-smokers aged 40 years or older.
Result:
Recruitment to focus groups was very challenging, despite remuneration being offered. In total there were 13 participants and a further 56 people responded to questionnaires. Key barriers to screening participation identified were accessibility, with many participants preferring community-based drop-in sessions, perceived stigma and blame surrounding smoking and fear and nihilism regarding a lung cancer diagnosis. Although many were supportive in principle around the idea of screening, they felt that the way it was presented to them was crucial. Participants emphasised the importance of community engagement and the use of community leaders to talk to those who were eligible for screening in a way that they could understand and thus promote it rather than it coming from a medically qualified individual.
Conclusion:
This work gives an insight into some of the ideas and opinions around lung cancer screening and highlights some barriers that need to be addressed prior to implementation of a national screening programme. A combination of practical and emotional barriers, alongside the role of community engagement and education were identified as important. As lung cancer screening will focus on a high-risk group of smokers and ex-smokers, their perception of smoking stigma and blame will need to be addressed in a non-judgemental way and novel education and invitation material may need to be developed, delivered through community approaches, to promote screening in a positive light.
