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BMC Cancer
Published in: BMC Cancer 1/2019

Open Access 01-12-2019 | Lung Cancer | Research article

Patient and carer perceived barriers to early presentation and diagnosis of lung cancer: a systematic review

Authors: Shemana Cassim, Lynne Chepulis, Rawiri Keenan, Jacquie Kidd, Melissa Firth, Ross Lawrenson

Published in: BMC Cancer | Issue 1/2019

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Abstract

Background

Lung cancer is typically diagnosed at a late stage. Early presentation and detection of lung cancer symptoms is critical to improving survival but can be clinically complicated and as yet a robust screening method for diagnosis is not available in routine practice. Accordingly, the barriers to help-seeking behaviour and diagnosis need to be considered. This review aimed to document the barriers to early presentation and diagnosis of lung cancer, based on patient and carer perspectives.

Methods

A systematic review of databases was performed for original, English language articles discussing qualitative research on patient perceived barriers to early presentation and diagnosis of lung cancer. Three major databases were searched: Scopus, PubMed and EBSCOhost. References cited in the selected studies were searched for further relevant articles.

Results

Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria for review. Barriers were grouped into three categories: healthcare provider and system factors, patient factors and disease factors.

Conclusions

Studies showed that the most frequently reported barriers to early presentation and diagnosis of lung cancer reported by patients and carers related to poor relationships between GPs and patients, a lack of access to services and care for patients, and a lack of awareness of lung cancer symptoms and treatment. Addressing these barriers offers opportunities by which rates of early diagnosis of lung cancer may be improved.
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Metadata
Title
Patient and carer perceived barriers to early presentation and diagnosis of lung cancer: a systematic review
Authors
Shemana Cassim
Lynne Chepulis
Rawiri Keenan
Jacquie Kidd
Melissa Firth
Ross Lawrenson
Publication date
01-12-2019
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Cancer / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2407
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-018-5169-9

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