Communicating uncertainty: contrasting the communication experiences of patients with advanced COPD and incurable lung cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Due to the uncertain disease trajectory and variable rate of progression in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), health care professionals (HCPs) are challenged in explaining what the future may hold for patients compared to those with lung cancer (LC). Support and communication of timely information can significantly improve health outcomes.

Objective

This study sought to identify factors that impact communication and support and recommend ways to improve patients' understanding of living with life-threatening illness.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with patients with LC (n = 22) and advanced COPD (n = 18), their informal carers (21 LC and 18 COPD) and HCPs (n = 51). Patients were recruited from primary and secondary care in the East of Englan

SUBMITTER: Ngwenya N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8604275 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature