Table 4 Comments from patients including a representative sample of responses to question 7 at the 6 month follow-up session: test group: “How do you feel now about having had a genetic test that estimated the probability that you will develop lung cancer at some future date?”, control group: “How would you feel about having a test that estimates the probability that you will develop lung cancer at some future date if you continue smoking?”

1

T

For you to use the test to personalise the message does have a big impact

2

T

The test made me stop and think. I did need help, likewise other members of group so we could help each other—empathising

3

T

My risk score was lower than expected so the “scare factor” not so effective

4

T

The Respiragene test motivated me more at the time than it does now. However, it is still good to know now

5

T

If I had realised that the course would involve sitting in a circle discussing my smoking habits and so forth, I wouldn’t have come in the first place!

6

T

If the group had carried on longer, I wouldn’t still me smoking

7

T

The test was worth having but I was mainly concerned about the affect of passive smoking on my grandchildren

8

C

The stress of separating from my wife has left me smoking again. I would like to have a risk test to help me quit again

9

C

I wouldn’t want a risk test. I believe life goes its own natural course. You’ve got to die of something

10

C

I wouldn’t mind having a test for lung cancer risk even though it is scary

11

C

I am smoking too much. I would end up worrying that the result (of a risk test) will be high but I think it’s a reality check I need

12

C

The medication (varenicline) made so much difference compared to previous attempts to quit. It took away the mental pressure

13

C

I am concerned about the affect of passive smoking on my small daughter

14

C

My orthopaedic surgeon said my fractured arm wasn’t healing due to me being a smoker