Self-testing for cancer: a community survey

Sue Wilson, Angela Ryan, Sheila Greenfield, SC Clifford, Roger Holder, Helen Pattison, David Fitzmaurice, Richard McManus

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)
125 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background: Cancer-related self-tests are currently available to buy in pharmacies or over the internet, including tests for faecal occult blood, PSA and haematuria. Self-tests have potential benefits (e. g. convenience) but there are also potential harms (e. g. delays in seeking treatment). The extent of cancer-related self-test use in the UK is not known. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cancer-related self-test use. Methods: Adults (n = 5,545) in the West Midlands were sent a questionnaire that collected socio-demographic information and data regarding previous and potential future use of 18 different self-tests. Prevalence rates were directly standardised to the England population. The postcode based Index of Multiple Deprivation 2004 was used as a proxy measure of deprivation. Results: 2,925 (54%) usable questionnaires were returned. 1.2% (95% CI 0.83% to 1.66%) of responders reported having used a cancer related self test kit and a further 36% reported that they would consider using one in the future. Logistic regression analyses suggest that increasing age, deprivation category and employment status were associated with cancer-related self-test kit use. Conclusion: We conclude that one in 100 of the adult population have used a cancer-related self-test kit and over a third would consider using one in the future. Self-test kit use could alter perceptions of risk, cause psychological morbidity and impact on the demand for healthcare.
Original languageEnglish
Article number102
JournalBMC Cancer
Volume8
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 14 Apr 2008

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