130 Exploring the information needs of people living with non-smoking lung cancer

Abstract

Introduction Non-smokers (who have smoked less than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime) account for approximately 15% of people diagnosed with lung cancers in the UK. However, there is a lack of research on understanding the specific information needs of people diagnosed with non-smoking lung cancer (NSLC). To address this gap, a literature search was conducted to explore their unique information requirements. Methods Web of Science; CINAHL; ASSIA, and Scopus were searched for research articles (2002-2024) reporting (a) experiences of living with NSLC and information/communication needs; or (b) experiences of oncogenic lung cancers (e.g. EGFR or ALK Positive) which are more prevalent in non-smokers. Citation linking captured additional records. Grey literature from NSLC charities was also included. Consultation with two patient and public involvement volunteers, along with the steering group consisting of representatives from charities and healthcare professionals, identified further information needs. Results 30 papers/reports were identified which included NSLC participants or experiences of oncogenic cancers. The review highlighted (a) the paucity of research specifically on NSLC experiences, (b) a lack of detailed definitions of smoking-status, and (c) where people with NSLC were present in the sample their experiences were often not described as a sub-group. This meant that a pragmatic approach to data interpretation was required. The review/consultation identified the following themes around information needs and enablers/barriers: (1) the care pathway e.g. pre-diagnosis, diagnosis; (2) living with NSLC, e. g., information about holistic support needs; (3) enablers to accessing information, e.g., self-advocacy; (4) barriers to accessing information, e.g., stigma around smoking and lung cancer, trusting healthcare professionals to provide expertise/up-to-date information; and (5) gaps in informational support, e.g., how to deal with ongoing anxiety. Conclusion There is little evidence about the information needs of people living with NSLC. Our research aims to explore and better understand these needs in the UK. Disclosure No significant relationships.