The role of web based information on help seeking of those worried about lung cancer prior to diagnosis

A key to lung cancer survival is early presentation to health services and evidence shows this can be influenced by information from various sources. The internet is a potentially cost-effective means of disseminating information, 60% UK adults access it almost every day although there are socio-demographic differences in use.

Internet use is growing in that part of the population at highest risk of lung cancer and penetration via internet based interventions is becoming increasingly possible. For lung cancer patients the internet is the most commonly used non-physician source of information. This study will investigate the quality of the information currently available on the internet about lung cancer, the role of different information sources in triggering intention to seek help, and the potential of web based information to reach the population at high lung cancer risk and how this can be improved.

The purpose of the project is to understand the role and impact of publically available, lay information on presentation for lung cancer. Findings will inform a future web-based intervention to support early diagnosis of lung cancer, which we hypothesise will lead to earlier diagnosis and hence improved outcomes for lung cancer patients.

This 4-year full-time studentship provides full support for tuition fees, minimum annual tax-free stipend of 13, 590 and a conference/travel allowance. The project is due to commence October 2013 and is open to UK/EU nationals only due to the nature of the funding

The successful candidate will benefit from extensive training in survey design, patient interviewing, mixed methods data analysis, systematic reviews and programming.

This will provide an ideal platform to progress onto a postdoctoral academic career within the emerging area of connected health.

Applicants should hold a minimum upper-second honours degree (or equivalent) in psychology, nursing, social science, computing with a human interface/ergonomics/psychology. A Masters qualification with a significant research component in psychology, public health or human computer interaction would be an advantage.

Please direct applications in the following format to Professor Chris Todd ([Email Address Removed]):

• Academic CV
• Official academic transcripts
• Contact details for two suitable referees
• A personal statement (750 words maximum) outlining your suitability for the study, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date.

Any enquiries relating to the project and/or suitability should be directed to Professor Todd. Applications are invited up to and including Monday 7 January 2013.

The Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences is offering the opportunity of over 50 fully-funded PhD projects to outstanding candidates seeking research training from October 2013. Details can be found on our website:

http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/studentships/

http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/

http://www.nursing.manchester.ac.uk/staff/ChrisTodd

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