Patient Experience of Managing Adherence to Repeat Lung Cancer Screening

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Lung cancer screening (LCS) using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is vital for reducing mortality.
• Adherence to recommended follow-up LDCT scans is critical but poorly understood.
• Factors influencing patient decisions for continued screening require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient and provider perspectives on ongoing lung cancer screening.
• To understand patient decision-making regarding follow-up screening adherence.
• To identify motivations influencing continued engagement in LCS.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative methodology utilizing patient interviews.
• Grounded theory approach for transcript analysis.
• Exploration of patient understanding of screening, risk perception, and motivation.

Main Results:

• Patient adherence to LCS is linked to their comprehension of the screening process and expectations for next steps.
• Perceptions of lung cancer risk and motivation are not static; they evolve during screening.
• Understanding dynamic patient motivations is crucial for supporting adherence.

Conclusions:

• Patient understanding of the LCS process and evolving risk perceptions are primary drivers of adherence.
• Providers can enhance patient engagement by acknowledging and addressing dynamic motivations.
• Future interventions should focus on supporting patients through evolving perceptions during long-term LCS.