Implementation of a self-administered questionnaire to detect lung carcinogens

Area of Science:

• Occupational Medicine
• Public Health
• Oncology

Background:

• Lung cancer has significant occupational origins, estimated between 10-20%.
• Screening for occupational risk factors is essential in lung cancer diagnosis.
• The RECAP questionnaire was developed to address under-declaration of occupational lung cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine optimal conditions for administering the RECAP questionnaire.
• To facilitate systematic use in managing hospitalized lung cancer patients.
• To improve the identification of occupational lung cancer.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of lung cancer patient care pathways in two centers.
• Focus group with healthcare professionals.
• Semi-directive interviews with 24 lung cancer patients.

Main Results:

• Patients preferred non-caregiver staff for questionnaire administration, viewing it as administrative.
• Both patients and caregivers suggested avoiding initial treatment stages due to diagnostic trauma.
• Administration during chemotherapy was favored by patients for availability and by caregivers for patient attention.

Conclusions:

• Patients often lack awareness regarding lung cancer recognition as an occupational disease.
• Implementing the RECAP questionnaire can simplify insurance claims for occupational lung cancer.
• Optimizing questionnaire administration is vital for its effective use.