Stigma is when negative attitudes are expressed towards someone or something not to be acceptable by society. Stigma may come from family, friends, or even someone’s healthcare team. Lung cancer stigma negatively impacts the clinical care and outcomes of people diagnosed with lung cancer, resulting in enduring disparities for people living with the disease.

A cross-sectional survey was administered to the public, oncologists, and people with lung cancer ten years apart (2008 and 2018) using the same instrument and methodology. The measures of stigma agreement ratings on a five-point Likert scale were compared between 2008 and 2018 for all sample groups.

The data showed clear improvements in the availability of treatment options and awareness about lung cancer. However, it did not show any significant change in levels of stigma. Notably, patients perceived more stigma in 2018 than in 2008, perhaps due to the increased awareness and changing demographics of the disease.

You can help fight the stigma against lung cancer. Learn more about stigma and help raise awareness.

GO2 for Lung Cancer staff performed the original cross-sectional study and data analysis in 2008 and was responsible for the repeat analysis in 2018. The most recent key study findings were published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology in 2020. After learning that perceived stigma increased, GO2 has remained committed to raising awareness of lung cancer and decreasing the stigma faced by people living with lung cancer. In addition to our work in awareness and education, this also includes partnership in the Empathic Communication Skills Training Study.