AI Article Synopsis

  • Six-monthly ultrasound screenings for liver cancer are important for patients with cirrhosis, but many do not participate in these checks, despite the benefits in early detection and survival.
  • Researchers used the COM-B model and worked with patients and advocacy groups to find out why people avoid these screenings and to create new invitations and information materials to encourage participation.
  • Key barriers identified included fear of serious illness and stigma from healthcare providers; the developed materials aim to be supportive and informative to help overcome these challenges.

Article Abstract

Background And Aims: Six-monthly ultrasound surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recommended in patients with cirrhosis. Surveillance enhances early detection and improves survival. Yet, despite clear benefits, uptake remains low. We aim to identify and explore ways to overcome patient-related barriers to HCC surveillance with the aim of producing invitations for surveillance.

Methods: Using the COM-B model of behaviour and a co-design process, we collaborated with patients, liver health charities and advocacy groups, to identify patient-related barriers to attending HCC surveillance. We performed qualitative thematic analysis of co-production workshops on HCC surveillance to develop information leaflets and surveillance invitations.

Results: Twenty-eight participants attended five workshops. Fear of a serious diagnosis and stigma from healthcare professionals were highlighted as main patient-related barriers to attending surveillance appointments. Co-design was used to develop informative, user-friendly, non-judgemental invitations and information regarding HCC surveillance relevant to populations with cirrhosis.

Conclusion: We identified potential patient barriers to surveillance uptake and developed patient facing material that directly addressed these barriers to be trialled in the clinic. Targeting patient-specific barriers may increase uptake of surveillance and therefore enhance early diagnosis.

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Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11348922PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/JHC.S462303DOI Listing

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