Psychological and Behavioral Factors in Lung Cancer Screening Uptake and Adherence: Challenges and Opportunities

Lung cancer screening participation and adherence are influenced by individual psychological and cognitive factors and behaviors that may have negative or positive effects on screening, and the screening process in turn has important psychological and behavioral consequences. A nuanced understanding of these factors and consequences is essential in creating and administering effective and humane lung cancer screening programs. Barriers to lung cancer screening, such as knowledge gaps, anxiety, stigma, cost and inconvenience, can be addressed through patient-centered best practices and a wide variety of educational and behavioral interventions. The potential positive psychological and behavioral effects of lung cancer screening can also be leveraged to maximize uptake and promote screening adherence and other positive behavioral outcomes. This comprehensive review summarizes the known psychological and behavioral factors relevant to lung cancer screening uptake and adherence and provides suggestions for overcoming psychological and cognitive obstacles to successful screening.