Optimizing the implementation of lung cancer screening in Scotland: Focus group participant perspectives in the LUNGSCOT study

Cavers, Debbie; Nelson, Mia; Rostron, Jasmin; Robb, Kathryn A.; Brown, Lynsey Rachael; Campbell, Christine; Akram, Ahsan; Dickie, Graeme; Mackean, Melanie; Beek, Edwin Jacques Rudolph van; Sullivan, Frank; Steele, Robert; Neilson, Aileen; Weller, David

doi:10.1111/hex.13632

Cited by 5 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 57 publications

(162 reference statements)

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“…The term ‘hard-to-reach’ or ‘underserved’ describes communities who are typically under-represented in health planning processes, due to limited capacity for involvement or barriers to accessing healthcare programs ( 17 ). The acceptability of LCS has been measured in communities where screening has been introduced through surveys with participants ( 18 ) and with health professionals ( 19 ) but few studies have used focus groups methods to measure acceptability ( 20 ).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“We need to work towards it, whatever it takes.”—participation factors in the acceptability and feasibility of lung cancer screening in Australia: the perspectives of key stakeholders

Dodd,

Sharman,

Yap

et al. 2024

Transl Lung Cancer Res

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Background Low dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, targeted at those at high-risk, has been shown to significantly reduce lung cancer mortality and detect cancers at an early stage. Practical, attitudinal and demographic factors can inhibit screening participation in high-risk populations. This study aimed to explore stakeholders’ views about barriers and enablers (determinants) to participation in lung cancer screening (LCS) in Australia. Methods Twenty-four focus groups (range 2–5 participants) were conducted in 2021 using the Zoom platform. Participants were 84 health professionals, researchers, policy makers and program managers of current screening programs. Focus groups consisted of a structured presentation with facilitated discussion lasting about 1 hour. The content was analysed thematically and mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results Screening determinants were identified across each stage of the proposed screening and assessment pathway. Challenges included participant factors such as encouraging participation for individuals at high-risk, whilst ensuring that access and equity issues were carefully considered in program design. The development of awareness campaigns that engaged LCS participants and health professionals, as well as streamlined referral processes for initial entry and follow-up, were strongly advocated for. Considering practical factors included the use of mobile vans in convenient locations. Conclusions Participants reported that LCS in Australia was acceptable and feasible. Participants identified a complex set of determinants across the proposed screening and assessment pathway. Strategies that enable the best chance for program success must be identified prior to implementation of a national LCS program.

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