Addressing the information needs of lung cancer screening participants
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Addressing the information needs of lung cancer screening participants
IRAS ID
192823
Contact name
Mamta Ruparel
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 7 days
Research summary
Lung cancer screening by low dose computed tomography (LDCT) was shown to result in a relative risk reduction of lung cancer specific and all cause mortality of 20% and 6.7% in a large US trial. It has since then been recommended by several medical organisations and is now underway in the US. The UK National Screening Committee will make a decision on this in the next 1-2 years, pending the results of some further European trials.
However, as with any screening programme there are several issues to be considered by an individual considering participating in screening. Potential harms such as 'overdiagnosis' and 'false positive results' can lead to over treatment and anxiety. Although the LDCT scan is relatively safe, it still carries some ionising radiation and the need for repeated scans over time must also be carefully considered.
The benefits and risks, therefore, need to weighed up and the individual needs to make a personal decision that suits them. The facts can be complicated to understand, particularly in individuals acknowledged to be high risk for lung cancer, as these individuals are often have lower levels of literacy and numeracy.
Written materials do not always get read and are not always effective at explaining complex information to all people. Studies have shown that film may be a more effective method of communication, particularly for individuals of varying educational backgrounds. We aim to develop a film as a decision aid for patients considering lung cancer LDCT screening, and test its effectiveness at communicating complex information.
There is a need for decision tools to be researched prior to production to ensure the needs of the intended audience are being met. This is an objective recognised by the International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) and the present study will enable this. The next program of work is to scientifically validate the information film in a cohort of patients undergoing screening.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0089
Date of REC Opinion
10 Mar 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion