Cancer 101 in Minimum and Medium State Prisons: A Model for Preventing Cancer Among Incarcerated Men

Abstract

Abstract 40 Background: Incarcerated men generally have not been the focus of cancer health studies, despite the strong need for cancer health prevention interventions. Mounting evidence suggests that approximately 60% to 80% of incarcerated adults in the United States have histories of tobacco use compared with 15% of the general adult population. Tobacco use is still a major risk factor for a variety of chronic health problems, including certain cancers and heart disease. Smoking tobacco products daily elicits carcinogens that affect bodily tissues, thereby increasing smokers’ chances of developing cancer-related disparities. I undertook this work to adapt the Cancer 101—a cancer education resource to improve cancer knowledge, survival rates, and cancer control in vulnerable populations—for incarcerated men in correctional settings. Methods: Three state prisons were enrolled in a cancer education program that provided current smokers and ex-smokers information about cancer and tobacco dependence. Men were recruited by using several approaches: through announcements that were displayed in all cell blocks, word of mouth, and invitation directly from prison guards and administrative staff. Ten modules of Cancer 101 were provided for 8 weeks. At each session, pretest and post-test assessments were administered with each module. Results: Participants increased their cancer knowledge and were provided information about the health risks of tobacco products. Current smokers indicated cigarette smoking was helpful in curbing appetite, managing stress, anxiety, disappointment, and boredom. Conclusion: Cancer education classes in state prisons may be useful in increasing cancer knowledge and improving awareness about making better health choices. Cancer health programs are urgently needed in state prisons to empower inmates to take control of their bodies and prevent the risk of developing cancer during incarceration. Funding: National Institute of Health/National Cancer Institute Grant No. K22CA197066. AUTHOR'S DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Pamela Valera No COIs from the author.