Impact of Perceived Stigma in People Newly Diagnosed With Lung Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate perceived stigma and its possible associations with treatment expectations and preferences in newly diagnosed patients with lung cancer.

SAMPLE & SETTING: 274 patients with lung cancer diagnosed in the previous four months at oncology and respiratory outpatient clinics in Australia.

METHODS & VARIABLES: Participants completed a self-report survey about perceived lung cancer stigma and treatment expectations and preferences.

RESULTS: A mean perceived stigma score of 52 of a possible 124 was reported, which is lower than scores reported in other studies using the same measure; the current study determined that perceived lung cancer stigma was observed less frequently. Significantly higher scores were observed in participants who were younger or who had a history of smoking. Perceived lung cancer stigma was significantly related to treatment expectations. No relationship was found between perceived lung cancer stigma and treatment preferences.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Healthcare providers are in a key position to provide support and communicate empathetically with patients to minimize potential stigma experiences.