Personalised web advice for those who suspect lung cancer

25 Jul 2016

Tool to help us decide: when to go to the doctor’s?

University researchers are trialling a new tool that is designed to get people who may have lung cancer to their doctor earlier.

Current web information generally provides a list of symptoms which patients look at and decide for themselves whether to visit their GP.  However many patients put up with symptoms for months before reporting themselves for testing.

The new web tool, When2Go, aims to provide more personalised advice by asking questions about symptoms such as unintentional weight loss or persistent coughing. 

As people are asked, and answer, more questions, the software builds up a more accurate picture that culminates in a recommendation of whether or not to visit a GP.  It also generates a report which the user can take with them.

Researcher Julia Mueller said: “People often talk about ‘Dr Google’, but web information, even from reputable sources such as the NHS is general in nature.

“By building up a more detailed picture of the people looking for help we hope to make the advice better.  A system that stops people with symptoms putting off seeing their doctor could help to save their lives.”

She added: “The earlier a diagnosis of cancer takes place, the better the chances for the patient.  This software isn’t designed to alarm people, but instead, provide a better alternative to the general advice available online.”

The study is funded by the Medical Research Council.

Cancer is one of the University’s research beacons – examples of pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sector partnerships that are tackling some of the biggest questions facing the planet.

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