Medical and Clinical Case Reports

Medical and Clinical Case Reports

Open Access
ISSN: 2768-6647
Original Research Article

Lung Cancer in Never-Smokers: A Content Analysis of Newspaper Media Portrayal in the United Kingdom

Authors: Chibuike Obi, Rachael L Murray.

DOI: 10.33425/2768-6647.1092


Abstract

Lung cancer in never-smokers (LCINS) is a growing concern. Despite over 6000 annual deaths among never-smokers in United Kingdom (UK), surpassing other cancer fatalities, public awareness remains deficient. Media is an accessible source of health-related information that influences public perception. This study focused on portrayal of LCINS in UK newspapers to understand how media information leverage in improving public awareness and early help-seeking behaviour. Articles mentioning LCINS in UK newspapers, between 01 May 2022 and 31 May 2023, were identified from Nexis database and subjected to summative content analysis. Of 480 articles screened, 10.4% aligned with study objectives. Four main themes were identified: awareness and education, risk factors, personal experiences of LCINS, public figures experience and fundraising support. LCINS publications peaked in November, designated as LC awareness month. Under one-third of articles reported late-stage diagnosis of LCINS. Personal narratives, found in 32% of articles, were more detailed in local newspapers (30%) compared to middle-market (16%), tabloid (8%), and broadsheet (6%) articles. Emotional tone analysis shows that 12% of local newspaper articles combined melancholic and factual tones, including tragic elements in 4% articles. Middle-market articles were mainly factual (16%), while tabloid articles leaned towards melancholic tone (6%). Public figure experiences in 10% of articles were portrayed as voice for early detection and treatment. This content analysis underscores the role of UK newspaper media in disseminating LCINS information, potentially shaping public perception. The study highlights the potential of newspaper in addressing gaps in LCINS awareness, providing strategic dissemination of clear, accurate information.

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Citation: Chibuike Obi, Rachael L Murray. Lung Cancer in Never-Smokers: A Content Analysis of Newspaper Media Portrayal in the United Kingdom. Med Clin Case Rep. 2026; 6(4). DOI: 10.33425/2768-6647.1092
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Aaron E. Lisberg
Aaron E. Lisberg
Department of Medicine | University of California, Los Angeles

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