Risk perception and disease knowledge in attendees of a community-based lung cancer screening programme
Mikey B Lebrett, Emma J. Crosbie, Janelle Yorke, Kath Hewitt, Ailsa Rowlands, Ellena Badrick, D. Gareth Evans, Haval Balata, Richard Booton, Philip Crosbie
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: In England, a risk-based approach is used to determine eligibility for lung cancer screening. Ensuring effective communication and counselling of risk is therefore increasingly important. In this study, we explore the perception of lung cancer risk in attendees of a community-based screening service, located in socio-economically deprived areas of Manchester. We analyse responses based on demographic variables, calculated risk score and screening eligibility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: score ≥ 1.51%) were eligible for low dose CT (LDCT) screening. Prior to their assessment, attendees were invited to complete the study questionnaire, which assessed absolute and comparative risk perception, disease knowledge (incidence, survival, and risk factors), lung cancer specific worry, and mental health. RESULTS: OR 4.03, 95%CI 1.74-9.3; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Employing comparative rather than absolute risk may assist risk counselling. Further research is required to determine the optimal approach to risk communication in this setting.