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Travis E, Ashley L, O'Connor DB. Effects of a modified invitation letter to follow-up colonoscopy for bowel cancer detection. Br J Health Psychol 2024; 29:379-394. [PMID: 37953726 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether modifications made to the current National Health Service (NHS) invitation letter for follow-up colonoscopy examination affect participant state anxiety and behavioural intentions to attend. METHODS Five hundred and thirty-eight adults of bowel cancer-eligible screening age (56-74) were randomized to receive the current NHS invitation letter or the modified version of the letter as a hypothetical scenario. Modifications to the letter included fewer uses of the term cancer and awareness of alternative screening options. The history of the colonoscopy invitation, anticipated state anxiety, behavioural intention to attend the nurse appointment, and colonoscopy concerns upon reading the letter were measured. RESULTS Behavioural intentions were high in both conditions; however, participants reading the current letter reported significantly higher behavioural intentions compared to the modified letter. There was no main effect of previous invite status or interaction between previous invite status and letter condition on behavioural intentions. However, the effect of the letter on levels of anxiety depended on the participant's invitation history. Those never invited for a colonoscopy were more anxious when reading the modified letter compared to the current letter. Conversely, previous colonoscopy invitees were less anxious following reading the modified letter than those reading the current letter. Those never invited for a colonoscopy were more concerned about embarrassment and test invasiveness. All findings remained the same when controlling for age and education. CONCLUSION Modifications to the invitation letter were not beneficial to levels of screening intention or anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Ashley
- School of Humanities & Social Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
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Tsiligianni I, Christodoulakis A, Monastirioti A, Mavroudis D, Agelaki S. The journey of lung cancer patients from symptoms to diagnosis in Greece. A mixed methods approach. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2024; 34:5. [PMID: 38684681 PMCID: PMC11058196 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-024-00359-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The early diagnosis of lung cancer improves the probability of successful treatment. However, patients and physicians face several difficulties that can considerably delay the diagnostic process. A mixed-methods study that would follow the patient's journey throughout the diagnostic process could alleviate these difficulties. This study aimed to (a) track the patients' journey from the onset of symptoms until diagnosis and, (b) explore the patients' perspective of the journey until diagnosis, on the largest island of Greece. A convergent mixed-methods study was conducted with 94 patients with lung cancer. Patients completed a self-report questionnaire and were interviewed about their symptoms and journey through the healthcare system before their diagnosis. Our findings revealed several problems and delays in the diagnostic process. Both quantitative and qualitative data showed that patients did not recognize their symptoms and sought medical advice in time because they overlooked or attributed their symptoms to 'simpler'/'more common' causes. Furthermore, most patients were diagnosed 1-3 months after their first visit to a physician for their symptoms. Qualitative data analysis revealed three broad categories of problems that delayed diagnosis: (1) physician missteps, (2) administrative problems, and (3) the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic. This study found that major issues and delays prolong the diagnostic process for lung cancer. Therefore, optimization of diagnostic processes at each level of healthcare and interspecialty cooperation programs are needed. Furthermore, population-based interventions and patient education can help lung cancer patients be diagnosed early and improve their quality of life and disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Tsiligianni
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece.
| | - Antonios Christodoulakis
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Crete, Greece
| | - Alexia Monastirioti
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Mavroudis
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Sofia Agelaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
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Bennett SE, Gooberman-Hill R, Clark EM, Paskins Z, Walsh N, Drew S. Improving patients' experiences of diagnosis and treatment of vertebral fracture: co-production of knowledge sharing resources. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:165. [PMID: 38383386 PMCID: PMC10880218 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07281-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis involves changes to bones that makes them prone to fracture. The most common osteoporotic fracture is vertebral, in which one or more spinal vertebrae collapse. People with vertebral fracture are at high risk of further fractures, however around two-thirds remain undiagnosed. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends bone protection therapies to reduce this risk. This study aimed to co-produce a range of knowledge sharing resources, for healthcare professionals in primary care and patients, to improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment. METHODS This study comprised three stages: 1. In-depth interviews with primary care healthcare professionals (n = 21) and patients with vertebral fractures (n = 24) to identify barriers and facilitators to diagnosis and treatment. 2. A taxonomy of barriers and facilitators to diagnosis were presented to three stakeholder groups (n = 18), who suggested ways of identifying, diagnosing and treating vertebral fractures. Fourteen recommendations were identified using the nominal group technique. 3. Two workshops were held with stakeholders to co-produce and refine the prototype knowledge sharing resources (n = 12). RESULTS Stage 1: Factors included lack of patient information about symptoms and risk factors, prioritisation of other conditions and use of self-management. Healthcare professionals felt vertebral fractures were harder to identify in lower risk groups and mistook them for other conditions. Difficulties in communication between primary and secondary care meant that patients were not always informed of their diagnosis, or did not start treatment promptly. Stage 2: 14 recommendations to improve management of vertebral fractures were identified, including for primary care healthcare professionals (n = 9) and patients (n = 5). Stage 3: The need for allied health professionals in primary care to be informed about vertebral fractures was highlighted, along with ensuring that resources appealed to under-represented groups. Prototype resources were developed. Changes included help-seeking guidance and clear explanations of medical language. CONCLUSIONS The study used robust qualitative methods to co-produce knowledge sharing resources to improve diagnosis. A co-production approach enabled a focus on areas stakeholders thought to be beneficial to timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment. Dissemination of these resources to a range of stakeholders provides potential for substantial reach and spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Bennett
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | - Rachael Gooberman-Hill
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Emma M Clark
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Paskins
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
- Haywood Academic Rheumatology Centre, Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Stoke-On-Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Walsh
- Centre for Health and Clinical Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Drew
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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4
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Elshami M, Sawafta N, Mansour A, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Abukmail H, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Aqel W, Nairoukh R, Kittaneh R, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghma M, Aljbour J, Elian REM, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Albarqi SI, Bottcher B, Abu-El-Noor N. Anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible lung cancer symptoms and barriers to timely presentation in Palestine: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:183. [PMID: 38326766 PMCID: PMC10848550 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11935-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer (LC) has poor survival outcomes mainly due to diagnosis at late stages. This study explored the anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible LC symptoms and barriers to early presentation in Palestine. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited adult participants from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces of 11 governorates using convenience sampling. A modified, translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess LC symptom awareness, the time needed to seek medical advice and barriers to early presentation. RESULTS A total of 4762 participants were included. The proportion that would immediately seek medical advice for possible LC symptoms varied according to the symptoms' nature. For respiratory symptoms, this ranged from 15.0% for 'painful cough' to 37.0% for 'coughing up blood'. For non-respiratory symptoms, this ranged from '4.2% for 'unexplained loss of appetite' to 13.8% for 'changes in the shape of fingers or nails'. Participants with good LC symptom awareness were more likely to seek medical advice within a week of recognizing most LC symptoms. About 13.0% would delay their visit to see a doctor after recognizing an LC symptom. The most reported barriers were emotional with 'disliking the visit to healthcare facilities' (59.8%) as the leading barrier. CONCLUSION LC respiratory symptoms were more likely to prompt early seeking of medical advice. Good LC symptom awareness was associated with a higher likelihood of help-seeking within a week. Educational interventions are needed to promote LC awareness and address the perceived barriers to early presentation in low-resource settings, such as Palestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
- Ministry of Health, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Abukmail
- International Medical Corps, Gaza, Palestine
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hanan Shurrab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | | | - Wafa Aqel
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roba Nairoukh
- Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | - Obaida Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghma
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jumana Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan E M Elian
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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Khan Y, Verhaeghe N, De Pauw R, Devleesschauwer B, Gadeyne S, Gorasso V, Lievens Y, Speybroek N, Vandamme N, Vandemaele M, Van den Borre L, Vandepitte S, Vanthomme K, Verdoodt F, De Smedt D. Evaluating the health and health economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delayed cancer care in Belgium: A Markov model study protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288777. [PMID: 37903130 PMCID: PMC10615261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer causes a substantial burden to our society, both from a health and an economic perspective. To improve cancer patient outcomes and lower society expenses, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential. The recent COVID-19 crisis has disrupted the care trajectory of cancer patients, which may affect their prognosis in a potentially negative way. The purpose of this paper is to present a flexible decision-analytic Markov model methodology allowing the evaluation of the impact of delayed cancer care caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium which can be used by researchers to respond to diverse research questions in a variety of disruptive events, contexts and settings. METHODS A decision-analytic Markov model was developed for 4 selected cancer types (i.e. breast, colorectal, lung, and head and neck), comparing the estimated costs and quality-adjusted life year losses between the pre-COVID-19 situation and the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium. Input parameters were derived from published studies (transition probabilities, utilities and indirect costs) and administrative databases (epidemiological data and direct medical costs). One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses are proposed to consider uncertainty in the input parameters and to assess the robustness of the model's results. Scenario analyses are suggested to evaluate methodological and structural assumptions. DISCUSSION The results that such decision-analytic Markov model can provide are of interest to decision makers because they help them to effectively allocate resources to improve the health outcomes of cancer patients and to reduce the costs of care for both patients and healthcare systems. Our study provides insights into methodological aspects of conducting a health economic evaluation of cancer care and COVID-19 including insights on cancer type selection, the elaboration of a Markov model, data inputs and analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Khan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Verhaeghe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Research Institute for Work and Society, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robby De Pauw
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Gadeyne
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Gorasso
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yolande Lievens
- Radiation Oncology Department, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niko Speybroek
- Research Institute of Health and Society, University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nancy Vandamme
- Research Department, Belgian Cancer Registry, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Miet Vandemaele
- Radiation Oncology Department, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laura Van den Borre
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Vandepitte
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Vanthomme
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Freija Verdoodt
- Research Department, Belgian Cancer Registry, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Delphine De Smedt
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Elshami M, Mansour A, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Abukmail H, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Aqel W, Nairoukh R, Kittaneh R, Sawafta N, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghmeh M, Aljbour J, Elian REM, Zhor A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Current situation and future directions of lung cancer risk factor awareness in Palestine: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e061110. [PMID: 36653053 PMCID: PMC9853137 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate lung cancer (LC) risk factor awareness among Palestinians and identify factors associated with good awareness. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTINGS Participants were recruited using convenience sampling from hospitals, primary healthcare centres (PHCs) and public spaces located at 11 governorates in Palestine. PARTICIPANTS Of 5174 approached, 4817 participants completed the questionnaire (response rate=93.1%). A total of 4762 questionnaires were included: 2742 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2020 from the Gaza Strip. Exclusion criteria were working or studying in a health-related field, having a nationality other than Palestinian and visiting oncology departments or clinics at the time of data collection. TOOL: A modified version of the validated LC Awareness Measure was used for data collection. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES The primary outcome was LC risk factor awareness level as determined by the number of factors recognised: poor (0-3), fair (4-7) and good (8-10). Secondary outcomes include the recognition of each LC risk factor. RESULTS Smoking-related risk factors were more often recognised than other LC risk factors. The most recognised risk factors were 'smoking cigarettes' (n=4466, 93.8%) and 'smoking shisha (waterpipes)' (n=4337, 91.1%). The least recognised risk factors were 'having a close relative with LC' (n=2084, 43.8%) and 'having had treatment for any cancer in the past' (n=2368, 49.7%).A total of 2381 participants (50.0%) displayed good awareness of LC risk factors. Participants from the WBJ and the Gaza Strip had similar likelihood to display good awareness (50.6% vs 49.1%). Being≥45 years, having higher education and monthly income, knowing someone with cancer and visiting hospitals and PHCs seemed to have a positive impact on displaying good awareness. CONCLUSION Half of study participants displayed good awareness of LC risk factors. Educational interventions are warranted to further improve public awareness of LC risk factors, especially those unrelated to smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
- Palestine Medical Complex, Ramallah, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Abukmail
- International Medical Corps, Gaza, Palestine
- Faculty of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hanan Shurrab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Wafa Aqel
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roba Nairoukh
- Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- Faculty of Nursing, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Obaida Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghmeh
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jomana Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Areen Zhor
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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Marshall ME, Shields CG, Alexander SC. "Do You Smoke?" Physician-Patient Conversations About Smoking and Lung Cancer. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2022; 37:1967-1974. [PMID: 34264511 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-021-02067-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study examined how physicians initiated and navigated conversations about smoking with patients with lung cancer. While there are numerous health benefits associated with smoking cessation in patients with advanced lung cancer, conversations about smoking cessation are infrequent and often lack tangible cessation support. We conducted a qualitative inductive content analysis on transcripts of conversations (n = 58) recorded during an initial appointment between a physician and a standardized patient (SP). SPs portrayed a 62-year-old male with lung cancer completing an initial visit with a new physician. Qualitative analysis focused on examining how physicians discussed smoking with a new patient. We found that a majority of physicians initiated conversations about smoking, often during the medical history charting process or during conversations about the lung cancer diagnosis. The content of conversations about smoking generally fits within six categories: assesses smoking status, builds smoking history profile, praises smoking cessation, connects smoking behaviors to diagnosis or treatment, provides empathy or understanding, and presents a negative bias about smoking. We found that while a majority of physicians asked patients about smoking, most physicians aimed for these conversations to be short, routine, and medically driven. Conversations about smoking were not tailored to meet the specific needs of patients with lung cancer, which might include additional provision of support for smoking cessation and recognition of smoking-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Marshall
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA.
| | - Cleveland G Shields
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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8
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Sætre LMS, Rasmussen S, Balasubramaniam K, Søndergaard J, Jarbøl DE. A population-based study on social inequality and barriers to healthcare-seeking with lung cancer symptoms. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2022; 32:48. [PMID: 36335123 PMCID: PMC9637082 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-022-00314-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare-seeking with lung cancer symptoms is a prerequisite for improving timely diagnosis of lung cancer. In this study we aimed to explore barriers towards contacting the general practitioner (GP) with lung cancer symptoms, and to analyse the impact of social inequality. The study is based on a nationwide survey with 69,060 individuals aged ≥40 years, randomly selected from the Danish population. The survey included information on lung cancer symptoms, GP contacts, barriers to healthcare-seeking and smoking status. Information about socioeconomics was obtained by linkage to Danish Registers. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression model were used to analyse the data. “Being too busy” and “Being worried about wasting the doctor’s time” were the most frequent barriers to healthcare-seeking with lung cancer symptoms. Individuals out of workforce and individuals who smoked more often reported “Being worried about what the doctor might find” and “Being too embarrassed” about the symptoms. The social inequality in barriers to healthcare-seeking with lung cancer symptoms is noticeable, which emphasises the necessity of focus on vulnerable groups at risk of postponing relevant healthcare-seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Maria Sele Sætre
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sanne Rasmussen
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kirubakaran Balasubramaniam
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Dorte Ejg Jarbøl
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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9
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Saab MM, McCarthy M, O'Driscoll M, Sahm LJ, Leahy-Warren P, Noonan B, FitzGerald S, O'Malley M, Lyons N, Burns HE, Kennedy U, Lyng Á, Hegarty J. A systematic review of interventions to recognise, refer and diagnose patients with lung cancer symptoms. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2022; 32:42. [PMID: 36258020 PMCID: PMC9579201 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-022-00312-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with lung cancer (LC) often experience delay between symptom onset and treatment. Primary healthcare professionals (HCPs) can help facilitate early diagnosis of LC through recognising early signs and symptoms and making appropriate referrals. This systematic review describes the effect of interventions aimed at helping HCPs recognise and refer individuals with symptoms suggestive of LC. Seven studies were synthesised narratively. Outcomes were categorised into: Diagnostic intervals; referral and diagnosis patterns; stage distribution at diagnosis; and time interval from diagnosis to treatment. Rapid access pathways and continuing medical education for general practitioners can help reduce LC diagnostic and treatment delay. Awareness campaigns and HCP education can help inform primary HCPs about referral pathways. However, campaigns did not significantly impact LC referral rates or reduce diagnostic intervals. Disease outcomes, such as LC stage at diagnosis, recurrence, and survival were seldom measured. Review findings highlight the need for longitudinal, powered, and controlled studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad M Saab
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Megan McCarthy
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michelle O'Driscoll
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Laura J Sahm
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Patricia Leahy-Warren
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Brendan Noonan
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Serena FitzGerald
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria O'Malley
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Noreen Lyons
- Rapid Access Lung Clinic, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Heather E Burns
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Services Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Una Kennedy
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Services Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Lyng
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Services Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Josephine Hegarty
- Catherine McCauley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Saab MM, O'Driscoll M, FitzGerald S, Sahm LJ, Leahy-Warren P, Noonan B, Kilty C, O'Malley M, Lyons N, Burns HE, Kennedy U, Lyng Á, Hegarty J. Referring patients with suspected lung cancer: a qualitative study with primary healthcare professionals in Ireland. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6639404. [PMID: 35810412 PMCID: PMC9271233 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally. Most cases are diagnosed late. Primary healthcare professionals are often the first point of contact for symptoms of concern. This study explored primary healthcare professionals’ experience of referring individuals with signs and symptoms suggestive of lung cancer along the appropriate healthcare pathway and explored strategies to help primary healthcare professionals detect lung cancer early. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 36 general practitioners, community pharmacists, practice nurses, and public health nurses. Data were analysed thematically. Participants identified typical lung cancer signs and symptoms such as cough and coughing up blood (i.e., haemoptysis) as triggers for referral. Atypical/non-specific signs and symptoms such as back pain, pallor, and abnormal blood tests were perceived as difficult to interpret. Participants often refrained from using the word ‘cancer’ during conversations with patients. Ireland’s Rapid Access Lung Clinics were perceived as underused, with some general practitioners referring patients to these clinics only when clear and definitive lung cancer signs and symptoms are noted. Lack of communication and the resulting disruption in continuity of care for patients with suspected lung cancer were highlighted as healthcare system flaws. Education on early referral can be in the form of communications from professional organizations, webinars, interdisciplinary meetings, education by lung specialists, and patient testimonials. Lung cancer referral checklists and algorithms should be simple, clear, and visually appealing, either developed as standalone tools or embedded into existing primary care software/programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad M Saab
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michelle O'Driscoll
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Serena FitzGerald
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Laura J Sahm
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Patricia Leahy-Warren
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Brendan Noonan
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Caroline Kilty
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria O'Malley
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Noreen Lyons
- Rapid Access Lung Clinic, Cork University Hospital, T12 DC4A, Cork, Ireland
| | - Heather E Burns
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, DO1 A3Y8, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Una Kennedy
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, DO1 A3Y8, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Lyng
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, DO1 A3Y8, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Josephine Hegarty
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
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11
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Saab MM, O'Driscoll M, FitzGerald S, Sahm LJ, Leahy-Warren P, Noonan B, Kilty C, Lyons N, Burns HE, Kennedy U, Lyng Á, Hegarty J. Primary healthcare professionals' perspectives on patient help-seeking for lung cancer warning signs and symptoms: a qualitative study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:119. [PMID: 35585504 PMCID: PMC9114293 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01730-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality worldwide. Prompt patient help-seeking for signs and symptoms suggestive of lung cancer is crucial for early referral, diagnosis, and survivorship. However, individuals with potential lung cancer symptoms tend to delay help-seeking. This qualitative study explored perceived barriers to patient help-seeking and strategies to enhance help-seeking for lung cancer warning signs and symptoms from the perspective of primary healthcare professionals. METHODS Semi-structured focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 36 primary healthcare professionals. Data were collected via videoconferencing. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS The following two themes were created from the data: (i) perceived barriers to patient help-seeking for signs and symptoms of concern and (ii) facilitating early patient presentation for signs and symptoms of concern. Some participants believed that the high cost of a general practitioner visit, long waiting times, and previous bad experiences with the healthcare system would deter patients from seeking help for symptoms of lung cancer. Perceived patient-related barriers to help-seeking related to the different emotions associated with a potential cancer diagnosis as well as stigma, embarrassment, and guilt felt by smokers. Sociodemographic factors such as drug use, homelessness, living in rural areas, and being male and older were also perceived to impede patient help-seeking. The negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer help-seeking also featured strongly. Participants recommended several strategies to enable patients to seek help for symptoms of concern including targeted educational campaigns focussing on symptoms (e.g., cough) rather than behaviours (e.g., smoking), accessible and free health services, and using patients' support networks. CONCLUSIONS Patient-related and healthcare system-related barriers to help-seeking for lung cancer warning signs and symptoms include cost of healthcare, cancer fear, and various sociodemographic factors. Participants suggested that increased awareness and early patient help-seeking for symptoms of concern could be achieved through targeted patient education, national campaigns, the use of community support networks, and free and accessible targeted screening services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad M Saab
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Michelle O'Driscoll
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Serena FitzGerald
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Laura J Sahm
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Patricia Leahy-Warren
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Brendan Noonan
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Caroline Kilty
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
| | - Noreen Lyons
- Rapid Access Lung Clinic, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Heather E Burns
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Una Kennedy
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Lyng
- National Cancer Control Programme, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Josephine Hegarty
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, College Road, T12 AK54, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Elshami M, Abukmail H, Aqel W, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Nairoukh R, Mansour A, Kittaneh R, Sawafta N, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghmeh M, Aljbour J, Elian R, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of Palestinians about lung cancer symptoms: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:135. [PMID: 35395762 PMCID: PMC8991725 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of lung cancer (LC) cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Poor awareness of LC symptoms is a contributor to late diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the awareness of LC symptoms among Palestinians, and to examine the factors associated with displaying good awareness. METHODS Participants were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers and public spaces using convenience sampling. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess recognition of 14 LC symptoms. One point was given for each recognized symptom. The total score was calculated and categorized based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-14). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between participant characteristics and having good awareness. The multivariable analysis adjusted for age-group, gender, education, monthly income, occupation, residence, marital status, any chronic disease, knowing someone with cancer, smoking history, and site of data collection. RESULTS Of 5174 potential participants approached, 4817 completed the questionnaire (response rate = 93.1%) and 4762 were included in the final analysis. Of these, 2742 (56.9%) were from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2020 (43.1%) were from the Gaza Strip. Participants from the WBJ were older, had higher monthly income but lower education, and suffered from more chronic diseases. The most recognized respiratory LC symptom was 'worsening in an existing cough'(n = 3884, 81.6%) while the least recognized was 'a cough that does not go away for two or three weeks'(n = 2951, 62.0%). The most recognized non-respiratory LC symptom was 'persistent tiredness or lack of energy'(n = 3205, 67.3%) while the least recognized was 'persistent shoulder pain'(n = 1170, 24.6%). A total of 2466 participants (51.8%) displayed good awareness of LC symptoms. Participants from both the Gaza Strip and the WBJ had similar likelihoods to have good awareness levels. Factors associated with a higher likelihood to display good awareness included female gender, having post-secondary education, being employed, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers. CONCLUSION About half of the study participants displayed a good level of awareness of LC symptoms. Further improvement in public awareness of LC symptoms by educational interventions might reduce LC mortality by promoting early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. .,Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Hanan Abukmail
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.,Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Wafa Aqel
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Shurrab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | | | - Roba Nairoukh
- Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Obaida Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghmeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jomana Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan Elian
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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13
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Elshami M, Abukmail H, Aqel W, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Nairoukh R, Mansour A, Kittaneh R, Sawafta N, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghmeh M, Aljbour J, Elian R, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of Palestinians about lung cancer symptoms: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:135. [PMID: 35395762 PMCID: PMC8991725 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of lung cancer (LC) cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Poor awareness of LC symptoms is a contributor to late diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the awareness of LC symptoms among Palestinians, and to examine the factors associated with displaying good awareness. METHODS Participants were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers and public spaces using convenience sampling. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess recognition of 14 LC symptoms. One point was given for each recognized symptom. The total score was calculated and categorized based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-14). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between participant characteristics and having good awareness. The multivariable analysis adjusted for age-group, gender, education, monthly income, occupation, residence, marital status, any chronic disease, knowing someone with cancer, smoking history, and site of data collection. RESULTS Of 5174 potential participants approached, 4817 completed the questionnaire (response rate = 93.1%) and 4762 were included in the final analysis. Of these, 2742 (56.9%) were from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2020 (43.1%) were from the Gaza Strip. Participants from the WBJ were older, had higher monthly income but lower education, and suffered from more chronic diseases. The most recognized respiratory LC symptom was 'worsening in an existing cough'(n = 3884, 81.6%) while the least recognized was 'a cough that does not go away for two or three weeks'(n = 2951, 62.0%). The most recognized non-respiratory LC symptom was 'persistent tiredness or lack of energy'(n = 3205, 67.3%) while the least recognized was 'persistent shoulder pain'(n = 1170, 24.6%). A total of 2466 participants (51.8%) displayed good awareness of LC symptoms. Participants from both the Gaza Strip and the WBJ had similar likelihoods to have good awareness levels. Factors associated with a higher likelihood to display good awareness included female gender, having post-secondary education, being employed, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers. CONCLUSION About half of the study participants displayed a good level of awareness of LC symptoms. Further improvement in public awareness of LC symptoms by educational interventions might reduce LC mortality by promoting early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- grid.443867.a0000 0000 9149 4843Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA ,Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Hanan Abukmail
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine ,grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Wafa Aqel
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Shurrab
- grid.133800.90000 0001 0436 6817Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XDepartment of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | - Malik Alruzayqat
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roba Nairoukh
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Yousef M. N. Habes
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Obaida Ghanim
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Wesam Almajd Aabed
- grid.133800.90000 0001 0436 6817Faculty of Dentistry, Al Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ola Omar
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghmeh
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jomana Aljbour
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan Elian
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Al-Dadah
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Nasser Abu-El-Noor
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Nursing, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Bettina Bottcher
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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14
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxia Gong
- School of Economics and Management, Southeast University, No.2 Sipailou, Nanjing 210096, China
| | | | - Qingxia Kong
- Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, Rotterdam 3062 PA, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfert Spijker
- Dutch Foundation of Population Screening Region South-West, Maasstadweg 124, Rotterdam 3079DZ, The Netherlands
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