Abstract A013: Advancing colorectal cancer outreach & screening strategies: Tailoring approaches for two-spirit and urban Native LGBTQIA2S+ populations

Abstract

Abstract Background: The focus of this one-year collaborative initiative between the Center for Indigenous Cancer Research at Roswell Park and Northwestern University’s Institute of Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing is to refine and customize an existing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program to suit the unique needs of Two-Spirit and Native American LGBTQ+ urban populations. This undertaking, grounded in exploratory and explanatory qualitative methodologies, is not intended to test a predefined hypothesis, but rather aims to learn, understand, and adapt based on community input and participation. Methods: The project's methodology incorporates two main objectives: (Objective 1) Conducting virtual roundtables with representatives from the Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQ+ community in NYC, with the goal of understanding indigenous perspectives on CRC outreach and screening, and to garner insights on how to tailor these interventions for Native sexual and gender minority populations in urban settings; (Objective 2) Applying qualitative data gleaned from Objective 1 to modify NCI-endorsed materials, with the aim of more effectively conveying outreach and screening information to Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQ+ urban communities. Results: The initiative has engaged a Two-Spirit artist and educator to assist in the organization and co-facilitation of six virtual roundtable conversations, involving a total of 14 participants. Each 90-minute dialogue aimed to solicit input on current education materials, as well as suggestions for their adaptation. A team of five Northwestern University medical students collaborated on the project, contributing to the analysis of the collected qualitative data. Next Steps: Findings from this initiative will offer crucial insights into how the visuals, messaging, and information contained in the S2S colorectal cancer education materials can be revised to better engage Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQ+ individuals. By the project's conclusion, partners will possess clear, community-informed directives on how to adapt CRC outreach and screening resources, paving the way for future testing and implementation. Citation Format: Corinne E. Abrams. Advancing colorectal cancer outreach & screening strategies: Tailoring approaches for two-spirit and urban Native LGBTQIA2S+ populations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A013.