Cancer Resource Center Research Articles

Artmaking and Visual Journaling at a Community Cancer Resource Center

Artmaking and Visual Journaling at a Community Cancer Resource Center

Relationship between using cancer resource center services and patient outcomes.

Psychological and social support are crucial in treating cancer. Cancer resource centers provide patients with cancer and their families with services that can help them through cancer treatment, ensure that patients receive adequate treatment, and reduce cancer-related stress. These centers offer various services, including medical guidance, health education, emotional assistance (e.g., consultations for cancer care), and access to resources such as financial aid and post recovery programs. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed how cancer resource centers assist patients with cancer and improve their clinical outcomes. The study participants comprised patients initially diagnosed with head and neck cancer or esophageal cancer. A total of 2442 patients from a medical center in Taiwan were included in the study. Data were analyzed through logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression. The results indicate that unemployment, blue-collar work, and a lower education level were associated with higher utilization of cancer resource center services. The patients who were unemployed or engaged in blue-collar work had higher risks of mortality than did their white-collar counterparts. Patient education programs can significantly improve the survival probability of patients with cancer. On the basis of our evaluation of the utilization and benefits of services provided by cancer resource centers, we offer recommendations for improving the functioning of support systems for patients with cancer and provide suggestions for relevant future research. We conclude that cancer resource centers provide substantial support for patients of low socioeconomic status and improve patients' survival.

Implementation of a Cancer Education Program in Rural Counties with the Lowest HPV Vaccination Rates and Health Rankings.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). To address STIs, one rural county public school district developed a series of Family Life Programs to educate pre-teens about pertinent health information. The Schooling Cancer Program (SCP) was developed in partnership with the local Cancer Research and Resource Center to raise awareness about cancer risk factors including HPV-related cancers and HPV prevention methods. We collected a post-evaluation survey from students who attended a SCP session at one of the targeted middle schools. The SCP educated students about topics focusing on healthy lifestyles. The survey asked students' knowledge on the SCP topics, HPV knowledge, tobacco usage, and factors that reduced cancer development. 87% agreed that tobacco products are associated with cancer, and 81% did not agree that E-cigarettes are scientifically proven to be safer than cigarettes. Although we do not have pre-evaluation data about these students' HPV knowledge, our evaluation survey shows that 80% of students correctly identified HPV as the most common STI, and 84% of students correctly identified the factors that decrease their risk of developing cancer. Through this initiative, students learned essential health concepts and HPV-related risk factors.

Abstract B005: Development of a multi-component implementation strategy to deliver reproductive health care to Latina and geographically remote AYA cancer survivors on the US-Mexico border

Abstract Introduction: Reproductive health is a major issue for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors because of the higher risks of adverse reproductive outcomes, including infertility, spontaneous abortion, and preterm birth. Multiple barriers prevent implementation of reproductive health care to mitigate risks, especially in Latina and geographically remote communities. The objective is to develop a multi-component implementation strategy for this context. Methods: An investigator team including complementary research, community engagement, and healthcare workforce training experts was formed. Investigators reviewed published barriers and facilitators to reproductive health care in AYA survivors, candidate implementation strategies, inclusive of mobile health strategies, and community specific needs to generate candidate implementation tools. An implementation science framework was chosen to evaluate strategies and the context for improving reproductive health care for cancer survivors in Imperial County, a medically underserved and rural US-Mexico border region. Results: A collaboration was formed among the nursing school at San Diego State University, the community-based patient navigation program Cancer Resource Center of the Desert, and the comprehensive cancer center at the University of California San Diego, in order to pool expertise in community engagement, nurse workforce training, Imperial Valley patient navigation, medical oncology, reproductive medicine and implementation science. The investigators selected three implementation strategies to address known barriers in this region: 1) a culturally appropriate reproductive risk summary and survivorship care plan in English and Spanish to meet AYA survivor and healthcare provider knowledge gaps; 2) facilitation of care across health care systems via patient navigation; and 3) changing the location of clinical service sites, connecting rural, community based-setting with specialized care, via telehealth reproductive consultation. Guided by the Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR), a mixed methods approach has been planned to evaluate the implementation interventions, the inner context at clinical sites, individuals (AYA survivors, navigators, nurses, physicians), and outer context (insurance coverage, community philanthropy). Conclusion: A systematic evaluation guided by an implementation science framework will generate a multi-component implementation strategy to deliver reproductive health care to Latina and geographically remote AYA cancer survivors. Citation Format: Helina Hoyt, Helen Palomino, Beverly Carlson, H. Irene Su. Development of a multi-component implementation strategy to deliver reproductive health care to Latina and geographically remote AYA cancer survivors on the US-Mexico border [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr B005.

Viewpoint: a practitioner’s response to overcoming barriers to access by male participants at cancer resource centers

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide suggestions regarding how cancer resource center directors, staff and volunteers may encourage men battling cancer, as well as male cancer survivors, to patronize cancer resource centers and to participate in center services. Design/methodology/approach This paper provides a personal viewpoint based on research and on the author’s managerial experiences with cancer resource center services, including planning services and programming. Findings This paper offers cancer resource center directors suggestions regarding how they can attract male cancer patients to their organizations and encourage their participation in center services. Research limitations/implications No limitations were identified. Practical implications This paper provides possible strategies for overcoming barriers to access to cancer resource centers in the male cancer-survivor population. Social implications Given the medical costs associated with cancer care, encouraging men with cancer to actively participate in cancer resource center programming, which profoundly influences their physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being, can yield many societal benefits. Originality/value Cancer resource centers desire to be inclusive of all cancer patients, regardless of gender; however, these centers tend to be disproportionally patronized by women with cancer. This viewpoint addresses how this problem may be addressed via service enhancement, service programming and service design to encourage greater usage by men.

Viewpoint: the role of cancer resource center services on men's health

Purpose This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework that clarifies the social supportive role of cancer resource center services in the lives of men with cancer and its impact on their perceived quality of life. Design/methodology/approach Personal reflections. Findings The authors put forth a conceptual framework which shows that men with cancer may perceive the availability of four types of social support from others present in a cancer resource center. The perceived availability of social support is posited to enhance their perceptions of their quality of life. Research limitations/implications The study yields propositions that may be empirically tested by services and health researchers in future studies. In addition, the research findings may not extend to terminally ill male cancer patients. Practical implications Given the health benefits associated with social support, health-care professionals, social workers and cancer center directors should encourage their male cancer patients to participate in cancer resource programing and activities. Social implications Cancer resource centers offer male cancer patients opportunities to enhance their quality of life beyond the use of pharmaceutical drugs or professional medical treatment. The health benefits may lower costs associated with medical expenses. Originality/value This study contributes to an emerging paradigm in services marketing. It is one of the first papers to focus on the socially supportive role that cancer resource center services may assume in the lives of men with cancer and those surviving the disease.

4 Good, for Good, for Living Better and Healthier!

Background and context: Since 1982, cancer has become the leading cause of death in Taiwan. According to a survey done by Ministry of Health and Welfare Taiwan, the death rate of patients diagnosed of cancer without treatment in 3 months is three times higher than those under proper treatment. Aim: To focus on patients education and encourage self-management. To improve relationship between patients and medical professionals. To improve the patients' awareness of their own rights. To make sure that patients go through the entire treatment phases so as to increase the survival rate of cancer patients. Strategy/Tactics: Good 1: Understand it- to know the cancer stage and cell type. Good 2: Face it- to receive proper information about treatment and to take initiative during discussion and decision making process about treatment. Good 3: Treat it- to understand the specific treatment of cancer and to reach out for help regarding soothing side-effects and self-care strategies so as to maintain better quality of life while lowering impact of the disease. Good 4: Beat it- to go through the entire treatment phases, while following principles such as balanced diet, regular exercise etc. to boost energy for the fight. Program/Policy process: HOPE PASSPORT as a self-management tool Short films Advertisements in MRT trains. Press conference and broadcast Official Web site and Facebook page Outcomes: 4806 copies of HOPE PASSPORT were issued (2017/7-2017/11) Short films: 340,000 views on YouTube and 150,000 views in the movie theater. Posters in 66 cancer resource centers and 134 hospitals in Taiwan (2017/6-2017/12) were displayed. Additionally, advertisements on METRO Tamsui-XIngyi Line (2017/6/14-2017/7/12) and short film on platforms were displayed (2017/11/1-2017/11/30). Press conference: 6 reports on newspaper, 2 on TV, 99 on Internet news and 1 on magazine. Official Web site and Facebook page: 509,421 visits on official website (2017/6-2017/12) and 5,620,019 views on Facebook (2017/6-2017/8). What was learned: Using the “HOPE PASSPORT” as a self-management and communication tool, patients' awareness of the disease, the treatment and results of the examination were improved. It also showed both empowerment and self-management ability of patients increased. “4 Good” as a positive and strong slogan brought the main 4 steps for patients to fight their cancers.

Encouraging male participation in cancer resource centers

ABSTRACTThis research investigates reasons why male cancer patients may refrain from patronizing cancer resource centers. By drawing upon a wide range of research from the social sciences and visual design literatures, the authors put forth original propositions that suggest how cancer resource center managers can manipulate a center's servicescape, or built environment, as well as its service offerings, website design, and printed communications to attract more male cancer patients. Despite the inherent challenges of discussing gender in cancer care and limitations to its generalizability in all settings, this research reveals that differences exist regarding the way men and women respond to cancer resource center marketing initiatives. Given the profound benefits that cancer resource centers often assume in a cancer patient's life, including a decreased mortality rate, we encourage service marketing and public health researchers, as well as cancer resource center directors, to consider the propositions put forth in this paper.

Breast Health Disparities: A Primer for Medical Students.

While breast cancer incidence rates have remained stable and mortality rates have declined for white women, breast cancer mortality has steadily increased for African American women since the 1950s. It has often been assumed that genetic risks linked to African ancestry are the cause for these disparities. However, a better understanding of the role of stress and social and environmental factors in health lends evidence to the social determinants behind the increasing gaps in breast health outcomes. This resource's goal is to raise awareness among undergraduate medical students about breast cancer disparities, particularly the late-stage diagnoses and the higher mortality rate for African American women. Our educational session included a lecture on basic epidemiological data and information on breast cancer etiology followed by a case study, which was created with the founder of a local cancer support and resource center serving mainly African American women diagnosed with breast cancer. As part of the case exercise, we utilized concept mapping as a tool to apply learning. Pre-/postquizzes showed significant improvements in knowledge and confidence in working with patients. Narrative reflections from students indicated an improvement in targeting at-risk populations, educating patients about their risk and options, and understanding the complex role that socioeconomic factors may play in patient outcomes. By raising awareness and exposing medical students to the socioeconomic and cultural aspects of breast health, we hope to improve medical students' knowledge of risk factors and preventive strategies, as well as their abilities to guide patients through appropriate screening and follow-up.

The Effects of Yoga, Massage, and Reiki on Patient Well-Being at a Cancer Resource Center.

Cancer resource centers offer patients a variety of therapeutic services. However, patients with cancer and cancer healthcare practitioners may not fully understand the specific objectives and benefits of each service. This research offers guidance to cancer healthcare practitioners on how they can best direct patients to partake in specific integrative therapies, depending on their expressed needs. This article investigates the effects of yoga, massage, and Reiki services administered in a cancer resource center on patients' sense of personal well-being. The results show how program directors at a cancer resource center can customize therapies to meet the needs of patients' well-being. The experimental design measured whether engaging in yoga, massage, or Reiki services affects the self-perceived well-being of 150 patients at a cancer resource center at two times. All three services helped decrease stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cancer center patrons' perceived overall health and quality of life in a similar manner. Reiki reduced the pain of patients with cancer to a greater extent than either massage or yoga.

Abstract A11: Developing an intervention to promote breast cancer control among Latinas

Abstract Objectives: The potential reduction in morbidity and mortality through cancer screening can only be realized when appropriate post screening follow-up care is received for abnormalities. Cancer control education should move beyond screening to include follow-up care. In addition, cancer is viewed among some groups as a death sentence and God's punishment. The fear of cancer manifests itself in fatalistic views, including fear of treatment and rejection, and leads many to deny cancer screening or delay cancer treatment. The purpose of our “A Walk through the Cure” intervention was to create an interactive environment to provide a mechanism for participants to understand the process of breast cancer care. The intervention allowed participants to gain knowledge through direct experience and provide an opportunity to communicate and discuss myths and perceptions about breast cancer with health providers in a less threatened real-life setting. Method: The intervention was designed to lead participants to go through the journey of breast cancer care. The theoretical underpinning of the intervention is that persuasion occurring through an exchange process will have greater success in moving the individual toward a positive decision. The intervention brought Latina community health workers and community members to the University of Chicago Medicine to learn firsthand about breast health, breast cancer diagnostic and treatment, as well as survivorship. The intervention also mobilized faculty and medical students from the University of Chicago Medicine to create a stimulating learning environment. Participants were led on a walking tour of breast cancer care related centers, including Breast Health Center, Oncology Clinic and Infusion Center, Oncology Radiation Center and Cancer Resource Center at the medical center. Each stop of the tour was staffed by a faculty member. A mini lecture was given by the faculty at each stop and participants were encouraged to ask questions. The tour lasted about two hours, and ended with an interactive discussion led by breast cancer survivors who shared their story of survival. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected through a pre and post survey. Results: Forty-five members of the Latina community took part in the event. All participants demonstrated an increase in breast cancer control related knowledge on five different breast cancer topics: mammogram, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, breast health, and breast surgery. Likewise, pre-intervention 31.8% of the participants reported having a mammogram. Yet, post-intervention when participants were asked how they would rate their intention to have a yearly mammogram, 83.3% of the participants reported that they would definitely have a yearly mammogram. Conclusion: In sum, the “A Walk-Through The Cure' intervention shines a new light to patient education science that a two-way communication exchange process and direct experience not only improve knowledge, but also strongly move individual to a positive decision. Citation Format: Lisa Hinton, Helen Lam, Karen Kim. Developing an intervention to promote breast cancer control among Latinas. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Seventh AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 9-12, 2014; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015;24(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A11.

Abstract A12: Developing an intervention to promote colorectal cancer control among multiethnic minorities

Abstract Background: Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Screening for colorectal cancer has been shown to be effective in reducing incidence and mortality from the disease. Yet, Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System data has shown that minority populations (African American, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander) are less likely to report being up to date with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and having a colonoscopy within 10 years (60.0, 46.0, and 49.9%), when compared to whites (62.5%). Many barriers (lack of transportation, lack of access, fear, fatalism, low levels of health literacy, and lower levels of English proficiency) to CRC screening among minorities have been reported. However, studies have also demonstrated navigators, which include lay persons and health professional from the community to be effective at increasing screening among minority populations. Purpose: To increase capacity for navigators to promote colorectal cancer prevention and control in their community and/or health care setting. Methods: Twenty-two multiethnic navigators from partnering organizations that provide healthcare services for African American, Asian, and Latino communities were invited to participate in the “A Walk through the Cure” intervention. Participants were led on a walking tour of colorectal cancer care related centers, including Colorectal Health Center, Colorectal Surgery, Oncology Clinic and Infusion Center, Oncology Radiation Center and Cancer Resource Center at the University of Chicago Medicine. Each stop of the tour was staffed by a faculty member. A mini lecture was given by the faculty at each stop and participants were encouraged to ask questions. The tour lasted about two hours. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through a survey with open-ended questions. Findings: All participants demonstrated an increase in colorectal cancer control related knowledge, by comparing a pre and post self-assessment. Additionally, the navigators reported that their increased knowledge and familiarity with the CRC screening and treatment process facilitated increased levels of confidence to encourage patients or community members to screen for CRC. “I have accurate statistics related to CRC and the importance of screening, which helps me encourage patients or people in my community to do screening without any fear.” Conclusion: This data indicates the importance of innovative strategies to facilitate increased capacity among navigators to promote colorectal cancer prevention and control in minority communities. Citation Format: Lisa Hinton, Helen Lam, Karen Kim. Developing an intervention to promote colorectal cancer control among multiethnic minorities. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Seventh AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 9-12, 2014; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015;24(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A12.

Disparities in Patient Navigation Resources in Appalachia

Background: The study was conducted in support of an R01-funded project, “Patterns of Patient Care in Appalachia”. Most counties within Appalachia are designated as medically underserved, have sparse health care resources and lack integrated care systems. This study determined the extent of geographical differences among American Cancer Society (ACS) patient navigation resources (navigator and/or cancer resource center) in Appalachia. Specifically, this study investigated if there were barriers to access to ACS patient navigation for cancer care in the Appalachia region of PA, KY, OH, and NC. Results: Of the cancer care centers and hospitals in the Appalachia region studied, (n=232), web-based data informed that facilities (n=186, 80.0%) did not have ACS patient navigation resources compared to Appalachia cancer care centers and hospitals with ACS PN services = 20%. KY had fewer ACS PN centers (5) compared to PA (20), with Pittsburgh (Allegheny county) containing a noticeable cluster of ACS PN facilities (N = 6 out of 18 total). KY also had the lowest rates (12.5%) of facilities with ACS patient navigators. North Carolina had the highest rate of facilities with ACS patient navigation services compared to OH, KY, and PA (32.2%). The proportion of facilities with ACS PN were proportionately less for facilities located in non-Metropolitan areas (15%) compared to those located in metropolitan areas (26%, chi-square p = 0.0339). Significance: Two overarching results were identified in this study. Firstly, a large number of cancer care centers in the Appalachian region do not have ACS patient navigator services which enable patients to gain individualized assistance, overcome barriers that hinder access to care and access to information about the illness and services available. Secondly, the lack of standards and curriculum for patient navigators indicates there is considerable variation in level of exposure for each patient navigator.

Abstract A15: An innovative intervention to promote breast cancer screening in Chinese American women

Abstract Background: The potential reduction in morbidity and mortality through cancer screening can only be realized when appropriate post screening follow-up care is received for abnormalities. Cancer control education should move beyond screening to include follow-up care. In addition, cancer is viewed among some groups as a death sentence and God's punishment. This is especially true for Asian-Americans. The fear of cancer manifests itself in fatalistic views, including fear of treatment and rejection, and leads many to deny cancer screening or delay cancer treatment. The purpose of our “A WalkThrough The Cure” intervention was to create an interactive environment to provide a mechanism for participants to understand the process of breast cancer care. The intervention allowed participants to gain knowledge through direct experience and provide an opportunity to communicate and discuss myths and perceptions about breast cancer with health providers in a less threatened real-life setting. Intervention: The intervention was designed to lead participants to go through the journey of breast cancer care. The theoretical underpinning of the intervention is that persuasion occurring through an exchange process will have greater success in moving the individual toward a positive decision. The intervention brought Chinese community health workers and community members to the University of Chicago Medical Center to learn firsthand about breast health, breast cancer diagnostic and treatment, as well as survivorship. The intervention also mobilized faculty and medical students from the University of Chicago to create a stimulating learning environment. Participants were led on a walking tour of breast cancer care related centers, including Breast Health Center, Oncology clinic and Infusion Center, Oncology Radiation Center and Cancer Resource Center at the medical center. Each stop of the tour was staffed by a faculty member. A mini lecture was given by the faculty at each stop and participants were encouraged to ask questions. The tour lasted about two hours, and ended with an interactive discussion led by breast cancer survivors who shared their story of survival. Results: Twelve community health professionals and community health workers, and 16 community members took part in the event. Participants were asked to fill out pre and post surveys. In both surveys, participants were asked to rate their knowledge on five different breast cancer topics: mammogram, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, breast health and breast surgery. Participants were also asked to describe two personally important outcomes of the event and their intention to have a yearly mammogram. Before the intervention, the percentages of participants reported no knowledge on the topics were: 29% for mammogram, 25% for chemotherapy, 32% for radiation therapy, 18% for breast health and 40% for breast surgery. After the intervention, the percentages of participants reported no knowledge on the topics declined to: 7% for mammogram, 7% for chemotherapy, 7% for radiation therapy, 7% for breast health and 11% for breast surgery. After the intervention, more than half of the participants (57%) reported that they would definitely have a yearly mammogram compared to none before the intervention. Conclusion: In sum, the “A Walk Through The Cure' intervention shines a new light to patient education science that a two-way communication exchange process and direct experience not only improve knowledge, but also strongly move individual to a positive decision. Citation Format: Helen Lam, Lisa Hinton, Karen Kim. An innovative intervention to promote breast cancer screening in Chinese American women. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A15. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-A15

Abstract A22: Developing an intervention to promote breast cancer control among minorities

Abstract Background: Many studies suggested that culturally specific interventions were needed to improve cancer screening among minorities. However, the development process of such interventions and how they work are rarely mentioned. Theory-driven interventions are highly recommended. Using theories to guide the development of interventions for minority groups may not be adequate, since most theories were developed and tested in Euro-Americans and may not reflect the minority groups' life experience. In this study, we described how an intervention to promote breast cancer control among minorities was developed based on a well-studied theory and life experience from one of the minority populations - African American (AA). Intervention Development: The development of this innovative intervention, “A Walk Through The Cure”, involved three phases. During the first phase, focus groups were conducted in the targeted AA community. Focus groups are useful to exploring people's knowledge, beliefs, perceptions and experiences. They allow us to examine not only what participants think, but how they think and why they think that way. Focus groups are particularly sensitive to cultural variables. In phase 2, the focus group findings were organized using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The TPB was designed to address behaviors over which individuals have some choices and control. The TPB is based on the assumption that individuals are rational and that they make systematic use of information available to them, and that they consider the implication of their actions before they behave. Phase 3 was to design an intervention based on the information from phase 2. The goal of the new intervention was to create an interactive environment to provide a mechanism for participants to understand the process of breast cancer care. The new intervention allows participants to gain knowledge through direct experience and provides an opportunity to communicate and discusses myths and perceptions with health providers in a less threatened real-life setting. Pilot Study: Twenty-five community health workers and community members from a local African American community were invited to participate in the “A Walk Through The Cure” program. Participants were led on a walking tour of breast cancer care related centers, including Breast Health Center, Oncology clinic and Infusion Center, Oncology Radiation Center and Cancer Resource Center at the medical center. Each stop of the tour was staffed by a faculty member. A mini lecture was given by the faculty at each stop and participants were encouraged to ask questions. The tour lasted about two hours, and ended with an interactive discussion led by breast cancer survivors who shared their story of survival. Qualitative data were collected through a survey with open-ended questions. The overall feedback was positive and encouraging, and all participants reported an increase in breast cancer control related knowledge by comparing a pre and post self-assessment. Conclusion: Most of the intervention studies focused on evaluating the overall relationship between an intervention and outcomes without concerning the transformation process or underlying mechanism. Without knowing what made the intervention work or not working, it would be difficult to pinpoint what needed to be done for future improvement or development. This study laid out the underlying mechanisms of an innovative intervention. Although strategies to replicate interventions from one minority group to another have yet to be identified, successful replications depend upon many factors, such as the degree of overlap in cultural beliefs, health beliefs, health practices, and the focus of the intervention. We plan to test the intervention in other minority groups. Citation Format: Lisa Hinton, Helen Lam, Karen Kim. Developing an intervention to promote breast cancer control among minorities. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A22. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-A22

Readability of American Online Patient Education Materials in Urologic Oncology: A Need for Simple Communication

To determine the readability levels of reputable cancer and urologic Web sites addressing bladder, prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. Online patient education materials (PEMs) for bladder, prostate, kidney, and testicular malignancies were evaluated from the American Cancer Society, American Society of Clinical Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Urology Care Foundation, Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Kidney Cancer Association, and Testicular Cancer Resource Center. Grade level was determined using several readability indices, and analyses were performed on the basis of cancer type, Web site, and content area (general, causes, risk factors and prevention, diagnosis and staging, treatment, and post-treatment). Estimated grade level of online PEMs ranged from 9.2 to 14.2 with an overall mean of 11.7. Web sites for kidney cancer had the least difficult readability (11.3) and prostate cancer had the most difficult readability (12.1). Among specific Web sites, the most difficult readability levels were noted for the Urology Care Foundation Web site for bladder and prostate cancer and the Kidney Cancer Association and Testicular Cancer Resource Center for kidney and testes cancer. Readability levels within content areas varied on the basis of the disease and Web site. Online PEMs in urologic oncology are written at a level above the average American reader. Simplification of these resources is necessary to improve patient understanding of urologic malignancy.

Cancer resource centers as third places

Purpose – This article aims to empirically illustrate the socially supportive role of cancer resource centers in their members' lives. Design/methodology/approach – The authors employ the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and the QLQ-C30 to investigate the relationships between social support and respondents' quality of life. The authors also draw on internal cancer resource center data. Findings – The results show that the type of classes respondents engage in at the center, frequency of class/activity attendance, and member-to-member social support do not influence respondents' perceived quality of life. However, employee-to-member support does enhance a respondent's quality of life. Research limitations/implications – The study suggests that the activity programming at cancer resource centers is a conduit for the socially supportive relationships that form between and among employees and members. Given that the sample site was situated in a high-income, relatively stable suburban local...

Cancer resource center of the desert patient navigator program: removing financial barriers to access to cancer care for rural Latinos

BackgroundHealth disparities in cancer mortality for racial/ethnic minorities is a public health concern. Financial barriers are the major factors preventing cancer patients from accessing treatment in a timely manner. This article describes the characteristics of the Cancer Resource Center of the Desert (CRCD) Patient Navigator Program (PNP) in the rural underserved US-Mexico border region of the Imperial Valley. Financial navigation services and the insurance conversion process for cancer treatment are described.FindingsCRCD data from 2010 to 2011 were analyzed to report the characteristics of cancer patients, focusing on insurance status changes. Eighty-one to 87% of the patients served were Latino/Hispanic. A case scenario is presented to depict the financial navigation process in converting the patients’ insurance status. Among the total samples, about 7% (n=32) in 2010 and 16% (n=68) in 2011 were in need of health insurance assistance upon their intake. Financial navigators successfully converted virtually all non- or inadequately-insured rural cancer patients to better insurance status.ConclusionFinancial concerns are a significant thread that runs throughout the diagnostic, treatment, and post treatment journey of cancer patients. The complicated nature of patients’ circumstances and medical systems often hinders the patients going through the insurance conversion process. PNP plays a critical role in bridging the gap between patients and medical systems thus promoting cancer treatment access for this vulnerable population.

Abstract LB-48: The survivorship and advocacy task force model at Breast Cancer Connections

Abstract This poster demonstrates that an advocacy program can facilitate effective collaboration between a non-profit cancer support organization and the cancer research community. The evolution and scaling of the Survivorship and Advocacy Task Force Model is illustrated so that it can be replicated by other non-profit disease support organizations. Breast Cancer Connections (BCC), is a non-profit breast cancer resource center serving people touched by breast cancer in the San Francisco Bay Area and globally via the Internet and the telephone Helpline. BCC provides personalized information, support, and connections to other local and national resources in an atmosphere of warmth, sensitivity, and understanding. BCC was founded in 1993, by a surgeon and her patient who saw a need to augment what was being offered through the medical model. With more than 35 programs and services, all offered at no charge, BCC remains a vital and unique resource. Prompted by the requirement for patient advocate and survivor involvement in the research grant application process (California Breast Cancer Research Program, DoD, Susan G. Komen for the Cure) as well as by the increasing needs of breast cancer survivors, BCC formed the Survivorship and Advocacy Task Force (SATF) in 2008. The dual purpose of the SATF is to provide input and review to researchers applying for research grants and to assist BCC in developing services and programs that will improve the lives of breast cancer survivors. Task Force members who participate in reviewing research grants must be active research advocates and have formal training in the language and concepts of breast cancer research (such as Project LEAD Institute) or a Ph.D. in a discipline relevant to breast cancer research.The poster author chairs the BCC's SATF with five active members. The Task Force's efforts include meeting the PI to hear about the research, providing input to the PI on the research from the patient/survivor perspective, reviewing the grant proposal, refining the language of the lay abstract, writing a letter of support to accompany the grant proposal, and participating in the research if the research application is accepted. Current collaborators include breast cancer researchers from Stanford University, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, and University of California, San Francisco. As funding agencies increase their requirements for advocate involvement and as awareness of the importance of survivorship continues to grow, requests for SATF participation continues to increase. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-48. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-LB-48

Restorative cancer resource center servicescapes

PurposeThis article aims to illustrate how service organizations (e.g. cancer resource centers) can create restorative servicescapes. The article addresses whether cancer patients respond favorably to a cancer center's restorative servicescape and explores the reasons they might patronize the center and interact socially with others.Design/methodology/approachThis article synthesizes various streams of literature from services marketing, natural psychology, and cancer and medical research. The study defines and develops the framework's categories and advances propositions based on the framework.FindingsThe model proposes that cancer patients should respond favorably to a cancer center's restorative servicescape. By spending time in the center, people living with cancer may be able to remedy four frequently experienced, negative symptoms associated with fatigue.Research limitations/implicationsThe study explores a not‐for‐profit cancer resource center that offers members an array of participatory activities within a homelike environment. However, it may be difficult for traditional medical facilities to fashion restorative servicescapes.Practical implicationsThe study helps inform medical practitioners about the psychosocial benefits cancer resource centers offer cancer patients. This article provides a discussion regarding a cancer center's development of its Connect‐to‐Care program, based on an oncologist and a cancer center representative joining together to discuss a patient's cancer diagnosis and care.Originality/valueThis article proposes a theoretical understanding on how the physical and restorative qualities of an environment transform human health. It links the services domain to the health sciences and suggests a means by which cancer patients can “do more with less” by combining medical treatment with cancer resource center patronage.