Public perceptions of changing the terminology for low-risk thyroid cancer: a qualitative focus group study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To investigate public perceptions of overdiagnosis and overtreatment in low-risk thyroid cancer and explore opinions regarding the proposed strategy to change the terminology of low-risk cancers.

Design

Qualitative study using focus groups that included a guided group discussion and presentation explaining thyroid cancer, overdiagnosis and overtreatment, and proposed communication strategies. Transcripts were analysed thematically.

Setting

Sydney, Australia.

Participants

Forty-seven men and women of various ages from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds with no personal history of thyroid cancer.

Results

Participants had low pre-existing general awareness of concepts of overdiagnosis and overtreatment and expressed concern regarding this new i

SUBMITTER: Nickel B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6377531 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature