Understanding experiences of non-smokers living with lung cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding psychological distress and support needs of people diagnosed with non-smoking lung cancer.
IRAS ID
361076
Contact name
Lynn Calman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
A cancer diagnosis is a very stressful event and appears to be especially so for people with lung cancer, who may have higher rates of distress, anxiety and depression than people with other cancers. Non-smokers living with lung cancer (NSLC) (defined as less than 100 cigarettes in a lifetime) often differ to others with lung cancer, for example they are more likely to be younger and female. These differences may mean that their experience of psychological issues, concerns and need for support may be different. For instance, they may feel shock at the diagnosis and unjust stigma, having never smoked. However, there is little research into the particular psychological issues experienced by people with NSLC, nor understanding of how best to support them. This study addresses this gap.
This interview study will examine the experiences and support needs of this group. We aim to understand the psychological issues people face, their ways of coping, and the support they need. Participants will take part in one in-depth interview. We will talk to people of different age, sex, ethnicity, time since diagnosis, location, stage of cancer and treatment type, to get a range of views and experiences. Interviews will be face-to-face or by telephone/on-line. Interviews will up to 2 hours, according to the participant’s energy, and will be recorded for later analysis.
The study will give detailed information of the experiences and unmet needs of a range of people with NSLC. With this information, we will be able to suggest improvements to the way that cancer services provide psychological support to people with NSLC, and to develop new interventions and resources to help support and improve psychological wellbeing in this group.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
25/WA/0290
Date of REC Opinion
21 Oct 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion