Innovative Approach to Reduce Lung Cancer Stigma

An Innovative Approach to Reduce Lung Cancer Stigma

This is a feasibility study examining the feasibility and acceptability of a novel psychotherapy intervention on lung cancer patients who are experiencing stigma.

Experiences of stigma (perception and internalization of negative appraisal and devaluation from others) are pervasive for lung cancer patients. Previous work has shown associations between lung cancer stigma and detriments in clinically relevant outcomes such as depression, lower quality of life, and reduced engagement in cancer care.

The investigators previously developed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Lung Cancer Stigma (ACT-LCS) as a patient-focused intervention to reduce the self-blame, guilt and inhibited disclosure associated with lung cancer stigma. ACT-LCS is based in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a cognitive-behavioral treatment that promotes psychological flexibility through acceptance and valued direction.

This is a feasibility study examining the feasibility and acceptability of ACT-LCS.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Proficiency in English
• Diagnosed with or treated for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) or Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) within the prior 12 months.
• Scores of 37.5 on the Lung Cancer Stigma Inventory (LCSI) screening measure

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not proficient in English