Faces of lung cancer: A multimedia photo essay.

B26 The Faces of Lung Cancer project is a multifaceted series of media products that includes: an exhibition of framed photographs and essays (photo essay); a brochure to accompany the exhibition; a book; a website (www.facesoflungcancer.com) and a digital presentation for use as a health education and promotion tool. The purpose of the project is to increase awareness of clincial trials, humanize the clinical trial process by "putting a face" on clinical research, communicate a message of hope to newly diagnosed lung cancer patients and their caregivers, and give a voice to survivors regarding their experiences with lung cancer. The goal of the Faces of Lung Cancer project (developed in response to findings from a pilot project which revealed newly diagnosed lung cancer patients felt hopeless about their diagnosis and misunderstood the purpose and process of clinical trials) is not to persuade patients to accrue to a particular trial, but rather educate newly diagnosed lung cancer patients, their caregivers, and the general public about the misconceptions and benefits of clinical trials. Participants were chosen based on representation of diversity of experience as well as demographic characteristics (male, female, racially/ethnically diverse, span a variety of ages, diagnoses, prognoses, and experiences as a clinical trial participant). Interviews were transcribed and essays created from the transcripts, edited by research team members and returned to participants for final review. Photographs were taken by a professional photodocumentaryist. The Faces of Lung Cancer book, exhibit, and website were launched in May 2006. Preliminary evaluation results indicate: (a) the process of participating in the Faces of Lung Cancer project had a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients, their caregivers and family, resulting in increased participation in family advocacy programs and, (b) the general public, health care providers and friends of lung cancer patients rate the exhibit highly in all domains [creating a message of hope, increasing knowledge about clinical trials, and considering the visual display a powerful health education tool].