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Published on: August 1, 2019
Improving communication about cancer screening: moving towards informed decision making.
Jolyn K Hersch1, Brooke L Nickel2, Alex Ghanouni3
1Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia, jolyn.hersch@sydney.edu.au.
Public cancer screening communication is shifting from solely encouraging participation to supporting informed decision-making. This approach helps individuals weigh cancer screening benefits against potential harms for personalized choices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Communication
- Cancer Prevention
Background:
- Historically, cancer screening communications prioritized maximizing participation using persuasive tactics.
- Recent shifts acknowledge that screening involves both benefits and potential harms, necessitating a balanced perspective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review theoretical and practical aspects of improving cancer screening communication.
- To support informed decision-making regarding cancer screening participation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of communication strategies in cancer screening.
- Analysis of research on informed decision-making in healthcare.
- Discussion of theoretical frameworks and practical applications.
Main Results:
- Emerging trend towards supporting informed decision-making in cancer screening.
- Recognition of professional contention regarding the benefit-harm balance for certain screenings.
- Emphasis on empowering individuals to make choices aligned with their informed preferences.
Conclusions:
- Effective communication is crucial for informed decision-making in cancer screening.
- Future research should focus on optimizing communication strategies to present both benefits and harms.
- Supporting informed choices respects individual autonomy and preferences in cancer screening.
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