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. 2023 Jul 29;15(15):3867. doi: 10.3390/cancers15153867

Table 2.

Summary of the most common content- and format preferences of vulnerable people and clinicians.

Topic Studies Common Preferences (Presented in Codes)
Vulnerable People
Information-specific preferences n = 13
[80,81,83,84,85,87,88,89,90,91,93,94,95]

  • Key factors related to cancer risk and prevention;

  • Effectiveness and availability of tests for cancer diagnosis and treatment and their risks and benefits;

  • Common confusions and frequently asked questions about cancer and cancer screening;

  • Range of costs of screening;

  • Options of having additional information.
Format-specific preferences n = 13
[45,79,80,81,84,85,89,90,91,93,94,95,97]

  • Visually clear, simple yet attractive;

  • Use of images, appropriate colors, and illustrations to convey the messages;

  • Presented in simple/native/layman’s language;

  • Presented in multiple languages;

  • A format that is tailored to the needs of the target populations;

  • A tool [format] that is highly functional and has desirable features;

  • Website or web-based format for easy navigation *;

  • DVD or video-based format for sequential presentation of information **;

  • Paper-based formats for high accessibility and easy distribution.
Delivery-specific preferences n = 11
[79,80,81,82,83,84,85,90,91,94,95]

  • Provision of SDM tools that can be viewed at home;

  • Sufficient time in viewing the tools before consultation or screening discussions;

  • Easily accessible tools before, and/or after consultation;

  • SDM tools to be a part of conversations during consultations;

  • Guidance in viewing the SDM tool with someone they trust (e.g., majority preferred to be guided by nurses rather than doctors).
Clinicians
Content-specific preferences Studies: (n = 8)
[79,80,82,83,85,86,97,98]

  • Use of evidence-based information;

  • Information on risks that does not generate fear or confusion about screening;

  • A clear emphasis on the benefits of screening;

  • Information that prepares patients for discussion with clinicians;

  • Neutral content.
Format-specific preferences n = 8
[79,80,83,85,86,88,97,98]

  • Use of visuals, such as photos and illustrations presented in multiple languages;

  • Risks presented in a way that is easy to interpret;

  • Formats that speed things up by incorporative tools in clinicians’ electronic systems;

  • Formats with additional features, such as reminders and note taking options;

  • Formats that are highly accessible.
Delivery-specific preferences n = 6
[79,80,83,86,96,97]

  • SDM tools to be available in the waiting rooms;

  • Use of SDM tools should be a choice with proper consenting of the patients;

  • Clinicians to be trained in using the new SDM tool(s).

* Highly preferred by young to adult populations, ** Highly preferred by older populations and those seeking basic information.