Related Experiment Videos
Identifying Features of Scanxiety Among People With Cancer: A Nominal Group Technique Method
Nian D F Kemme1, Linda Kwakkenbos2,3, Judith B Prins1
1Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Psycho-Oncology
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Scanxiety, or scan-associated anxiety in cancer patients, has been clearly defined for the first time. This research identified 23 unique features of scanxiety to improve patient support.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychological Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Cancer patients frequently experience scan-associated anxiety (scanxiety) impacting mental well-being.
- Scanxiety lacks a clear definition despite increasing attention.
- This study aimed to define scanxiety by investigating its features in cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively characterize scanxiety in cancer patients.
- To identify unique features of anxiety related to cancer scans.
- To establish a foundation for improved assessment and support for scanxiety.
Main Methods:
- Utilized nominal group technique (NGT) sessions with 16 cancer patients.
- Conducted interviews with 14 patients and healthcare professionals.
- Employed qualitative content analysis to collate and review findings from NGT and interviews.
Main Results:
- Generated an initial list of 139 features of scanxiety from NGT and interviews.
- Consolidated the list to 63 unique features after merging and removing duplicates.
- Identified 23 features as unique to scanxiety, encompassing emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physiological, social, and care-related characteristics.
Conclusions:
- This study offers the first comprehensive characterization of scanxiety.
- Identified unique features provide a basis for better assessment tools.
- Findings pave the way for targeted interventions and improved support in cancer care.