Influences on Lung Cancer Screening Initiation and Retention in Rural Alabama

Authors: Amy Copeland, Kathy Levy, Claudia M Hardy, Jennifer C King, Maureen Rigney

The objective of this study was to understand the facilitators of lung cancer screening initiation and retention reported by people at risk within rural and urban populations in Alabama, U.S.A. Researchers conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with 58 people who underwent lung cancer screening between December of 2019 and January of 2022. Results identified the following influences as most important in initiating screening: information or suggestion from a community health advisor (CHA) or supervising county coordinator, suggestion from a friend, or consideration of a personal history of smoking. The findings suggest the benefit of using multiple methods to support increased awareness of and interest in lung cancer screening, particularly when educational messaging through CHAs is utilized. Clear guideline-based messages from healthcare providers about recommended screening may also increase retention and hence, the health of the Alabama population.