Patient-Reported Factors Associated with Older Adults’ Cancer Screening Decision-making

Key Points Question What are the factors associated with older adults’ cancer screening decision-making? Findings This systematic review of 21 studies identified that positive screening attitudes and gaining knowledge and reassurance were associated with the decision to undergo screening, whereas negative screening attitudes and not wanting to know whether one has cancer were associated with the decision to forgo screening. Other notable factors with varying associations included poor health status and health problems, limited life expectancy, and a physician’s recommendation to stop cancer screening. Meaning Communication strategies should support older adults to make informed cancer screening decisions by addressing underlying screening beliefs in context with their perceived and actual risk of developing cancer.