What is the public perception of a national lung cancer screening programme? Qualitative content analysis of comments and responses to national media reporting

<bold>Background:</bold> In June 2023, NHS England announced plans for a national lung cancer screening programme. This builds on existing Targeted Lung Health Check (TLHC) pilots which have shown lower uptake among specific groups, including current smokers and people living with socioeconomic disadvantage. Significant online debate following this announcement was noted. We hypothesised that this may provide an honest insight into the perception of lung cancer screening, particularly among those who may not traditionally participate in research. <bold>Aim:</bold> To identify attitudes to lung cancer screening and highlight areas of misinformation that may be addressed through future behavioural interventions. <bold>Methods:</bold> This is a qualitative content analysis study of online public comments and responses to national news articles about the announcement of a national lung cancer screening programme. A search of the major UK news outlets, and their affiliate social media sites was performed, using screening-related terms, between 19/06/2023 - 01/08/2023. Responses were extracted and analysed using directed content analysis. The data was then coded to develop a descriptive account of the dataset. <bold>Findings:</bold> This work provides insight into varying attitudes towards lung cancer screening. Concern over NHS capacity to manage diagnosed cancers, misinformation, and nihilism among people who smoke may reduce willingness to attend. Conversely, recognition of the value of public health and screening services, and awareness of risk could increase motivation to attend. Significant stigma persists around smoking and is likely a barrier to screening.