The needs and expectations of people eligible for lung cancer screening in Switzerland: A mixed method study

TL;DR

This study explores the awareness and willingness of Swiss individuals to participate in lung cancer screening and highlights the need for clear communication and support from healthcare professionals.

Contribution

The study provides insights into public and professional perspectives on lung cancer screening in Switzerland ahead of a pilot project.

Findings

Only 19% of respondents were aware of lung cancer screening, but 75% would participate if offered.

Participants emphasized the need for clear, non-stigmatizing communication from healthcare professionals.

Implementation requires multichannel communication and accessible logistics.

Abstract

Organized lung cancer screening is being considered in Switzerland. This study assesses knowledge, barriers, and expectations regarding screening among the population and healthcare professionals prior to a pilot project.

A convergent, mixed method approach combined an online survey, focus groups and interviews with laypeople aged 50–79 years with a smoking history and healthcare professionals. Data were collected between June and August 2023 in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland.

Among 952 survey respondents (79% women, 60% current or ex-smokers), 19% were aware of lung cancer screening, but 75% would participate if offered.Responders preferred information from general practitioners (72%) or official letters (46%). In qualitative interviews, the 24 participants emphasized clear, non-stigmatizing, emotionally engaging communication, accessible logistics, and supportive professional guidance. Eligibility criteria were often viewed as too restrictive.

The implementation of lung cancer screening in Switzerland will require a multichannel communication campaign, training and tools for healthcare professionals, and clear eligibility criteria using a pedagogical approach.

•Study of lung cancer screening implementation in Switzerland.•Awareness of lung cancer screening was low, but willingness to participate was high.•Participants call for clear, non-stigmatizing information via primary care doctors.•Implementation requires multichannel communication and smoking cessation support.

Study of lung cancer screening implementation in Switzerland.

Awareness of lung cancer screening was low, but willingness to participate was high.

Participants call for clear, non-stigmatizing information via primary care doctors.

Implementation requires multichannel communication and smoking cessation support.