2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) - ePosters-EP.16F.01 Priorities and Support Needs for People Impacted by Lung Cancer in Ireland

Pdf Summary

The study conducted by the Irish Lung Cancer Community (ILCC) aimed to identify the demographics, educational needs, and priorities of individuals impacted by lung cancer in Ireland. Each year, approximately 2,600 people are diagnosed with lung cancer in Ireland, and the disease represents a significant cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite this, little is known about the experiences of these individuals.<br /><br />An online survey was distributed via ILCC’s and Irish Lung Cancer Alliance’s social media platforms, targeting the lung cancer patient community. The survey focused on demographics, currently available support structures, access to information, and educational priorities.<br /><br />Key findings revealed that the majority of respondents were females around the age of 65, living with lung cancer for less than three years. Most had Stage IV NSCLC (Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer), with prevalent mutations like EGFR and ALK.<br /><br />Support needs emphasized the importance of psychosocial and counseling support, patient organization involvement, and physical therapy. People predominantly accessed information through their treatment teams and patient support groups, indicating these as the most crucial sources. Preferred information formats included physical leaflets, online materials for later reference, and in-person conversations.<br /><br />The study highlighted several priority needs for those impacted by lung cancer: guidance on navigating complex healthcare pathways, facilitating peer-to-peer support, and staying updated on the latest research and treatments.<br /><br />Participants expressed a desire for ILCC to provide resources through social media, their website, in-person engagements, and webinars, focusing on meeting these identified needs. This study, being the first and largest of its kind in Ireland, underscores the necessity for enhanced information access and support for those affected by lung cancer.

Asset Subtitle

Seamus Cotter

Meta Tag

Speaker Seamus Cotter

Topic Patient Advocacy

Keywords

Irish Lung Cancer Community

lung cancer

Ireland

demographics

educational needs

psychosocial support

NSCLC

patient support

information access

healthcare pathways