Cancer Screening Intentions Research Articles

The association between cancer literacy and cancer screening behaviours: a systematic review

Abstract Background This study aimed at investigating the association between cancer literacy (CL) and adherence to cancer screening programs. Methods PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were searched. Any study, published until March 2024, that investigated the associations between CL and cancer screening intention or uptake in any target population were eligible. For CL measurement, both validated and ad hoc tools were considered. For each outcome, articles were grouped according to the type of cancer investigated and results were narratively synthesized. Results A total of 3426 records were retrieved. After deduplication and screening process, six studies were included. Population enrolled was heterogeneous as well as the tool used to measure CL. Four studies explored the relationship between CL and screening uptake, one focused solely on screening intention and another investigated both intention and uptake. Significant association was found between CL and screening intention in the two studies included, with higher literacy levels correlating to increased intent for screening. A significant association between higher CL and skin cancer screening uptake was reported, while the uptake of prostate cancer screening was not significantly associated with CL levels. By contrast, mixed results were obtained investigating breast, cervix and colorectal screening uptake. Conclusions Higher levels of cancer literacy appeared to be associated with screening intention, while its association with screening uptake was found barely significant for any screening type, suggesting that other factors influence the actual screening uptake. However, the scarce number of studies, along with the absence of validated tools and the heterogeneity of target populations, limits the generalizability of the results. Further research, differentiating screening types and timelines and using multivariate models, is needed to clarify the role of CL in screening behaviours. Key messages • Higher levels of cancer literacy appear to be associated with screening intention, suggesting its importance in promoting motivation for early cancer detection. • Association between cancer literacy and screening uptake was found barely significant for any screening type, suggesting that other factors influence actual screening uptake, urging further research.

Mixed-methods systematic review of shared decision-making tools for cancer screening

Abstract Shared decision-making (SDM) tools hold promise for guiding informed choices in cancer screening. However, their effectiveness among underserved people, as well as the specific characteristics of these tools preferred by this group and clinicians, remains unclear. This review aimed to synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of SDM tools for cancer screening and explored the preferences of underserved people and clinicians regarding the specific characteristics of the SDM tools. A mixed-method convergent segregated approach was employed, which involved an independent synthesis of quantitative and qualitative data. Articles were systematically selected and screened, resulting in the inclusion and critical appraisal of 55 studies. Results from the meta-analyses showed that SDM tools for cancer screening are effective in reducing decisional conflict for both the general population and the underserved, and in increasing cancer screening knowledge and intention for underserved people only. Subgroup analyses showed minimal heterogeneity for decisional conflict outcomes, measured over a six-month period. Insights from the qualitative findings revealed that underserved people highly preferred SDM tools with relevant information about cancer risk, culturally tailored content, and high accessibility, both during clinical encounters and beyond. Meanwhile, clinicians highly preferred tools that can be easily integrated into medical systems, and can effectively guide SDM, while considering their patients’ values and the limited time for consultation. There is strong evidence on the effectiveness of SDM tools in facilitating informed choice in cancer screening, especially among underserved people. However, evidence on long-term outcomes remains insufficient. Additionally, considering the difference in preferences of key stakeholders in terms of tool characteristics, fostering collaboration with them during the creation of an SDM tool for cancer screening is essential. Key messages • Shared decision-making tools are effective in increasing screening knowledge and intention among underserved people. • Considering the difference in preferences of key stakeholders in terms of tool characteristics, fostering collaboration with them during the creation of an SDM tool for cancer screening is essential.

Using a community-engaged research process to plan, implement, and evaluate a cancer education program to improve knowledge and screening intentions among African American men

Objective We assessed acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of a culturally appropriate, cancer education program to improve cancer knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and screening intentions for oropharynx, colon, and prostate cancers among African American men. We detailed the community-engaged research process used for African American men to design, implement, and evaluate the program. Materials and Methods We recruited 84 (61 in-person, 23 online) African American men over 2-months across 4 churches in Middle Tennessee in 2021. A single group, pre-post-test design was used to evaluate the 2.5-h hybrid program. Scales used were: General self-efficacy for cancer screening; attitudes toward cancer; general cancer knowledge; and subjective norms related to cancer. One-item measured cancer screening intention. Taba robust partial correlation measured the degree of association between changes in means of each explanatory variable with changes in means of each outcome variable. IBM SPSS version 28 and R/RStudio version 3.6.0 was used for data analysis. We conducted three focus groups (n = 17) to assess program acceptability. Microsoft Excel version 26 was used to conduct thematic analysis for this data. Findings Quantitative Significant differences were found in the pre/post comparisons of knowledge (mean difference: 0.22; p-value = 0.015), self-efficacy (mean difference: 0.23; p-value < 0.001), and prostate cancer screening intention (mean difference: 0.19; p-value = 0.049) scores. This indicates the mean score for knowledge, self-efficacy, and prostate cancer screening intention was significantly higher post-intervention. Qualitative Focus group themes were: (1) Impact of Program on Participants Psychosocial Health (2) Perspectives on Life after the program. (3) Views on Programmatic Components; (4) Recommendations for Program Improvement. Conclusions Results demonstrate our program is feasible, acceptable, and could increase cancer screening intentions and behavior. Psychosocial providers should demonstrate cultural awareness and humility when providing services to address the psychological and social needs for cancer screening among African American men.

A new communication approach to encourage lung cancer screening action in rural eligible populations

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to develop an effective communication approach to encourage lung cancer screening action within rural screening-eligible populations. MethodsAn iterative research approach using targeted engagement with the priority population was used. Findings were triangulated through multiple methods, including two surveys and concept testing interviews. The Health Belief Model and the Extended Parallel Process Model served as study frameworks. ResultsInitial findings suggest that threat levels are high in the priority population and an emphasis on barrier mitigation messaging may drive action. Health campaign posters integrating these findings were developed and tested with the priority population. The new health campaign posters were tested against examples of previously used health campaign posters. Findings suggest that the new health campaign posters were more effective in spurring lung cancer screening motivation and intention to act in the priority population compared to current health campaign poster examples. ConclusionMessaging focused on gain-framing, inoculation messaging, and barrier mitigation may be more effective in encouraging lung cancer screening action in rural eligible populations. InnovationThis project outlines a systematic process to developing effective, targeted communication approaches using behavior change and persuasive communication frameworks along with engagement from priority populations.

Impact of cancer screening results on patient-reported outcomes (PRO) and behavioral intentions.

10608 Background: Cancer is one of the most feared diseases. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests have the potential to expand the number of cancers that are detected at earlier stages, which could result in better clinical outcomes. However, behavioral impacts based on MCED test results could affect the utility and value of these tests. Methods: Two independent data sources evaluated the impact of MCED test results on behavioral intentions and perceptions: a survey of the general population and PRO in an MCED clinical trial. A web-based, 30-minute survey of the US general population was used to ascertain attitudes toward a hypothetical MCED test. Eligible respondents were adults aged 40-80 years without a cancer diagnosis in the previous 5 years. The survey assessed the perceived value of negative results (ie, no cancer signal detected [NCSD]) and the projected impact on post-test behaviors. The prospective PATHFINDER study (NCT04241796) of adults aged ≥50 years who underwent MCED cancer screening included PRO assessments. Post-test assessments included: "I am feeling relieved about my test result" from the adapted MICRA and “How likely are you to follow your healthcare provider’s cancer screening recommendations.” The consistency of sentiment after an NCSD MCED result from the online survey and clinical study was assessed. Results: Of the 1073 online survey respondents, 53% were female, 77% White, 14% Black/African American, and 13% Hispanic. Mean age was 58 years. The most common anticipated emotional impacts were relief (84%), happiness (72%), and confidence (69%). Respondents (66-70%) reported they would expect less worry, fear, stress, and anxiety after an NCSD MCED result. The majority (73%) reported they would maintain or improve health behaviors after an NCSD result. NCSD results were projected to lead to an increase in health-related behaviors, including adherence to recommended cancer screening (98%; 68% increase, 30% maintain current level) and regular doctor visits (46%). Of the 6529 PATHFINDER study participants who received NCSD results, 64% were female, 92% White. Mean age was 63 years. 80% of participants (n = 4685/5865) with NCSD felt relief "sometimes" or "often" after their MCED test result. Over 95% of participants (n = 5637/5863) with NCSD indicated they were "likely" or "very likely" to adhere to cancer screening recommendations in the future. Conclusions: Results from a general population survey and a prospective clinical study indicate that an NCSD result may be associated with positive cancer screening intentions and other preventive healthcare behaviors. An NCSD result may also positively impact psychological and emotional health. While these findings suggest that an NCSD result may provide additional value beyond traditional clinical benefits associated with cancer screening, future research is needed to delineate the behavioral impact following MCED screening. Clinical trial information: NCT04241796 .

Comparing health literacy and behavioral changes in adulthood: A pilot study on alumni of a single school cancer education program.

Cancer education programs are regularly conducted in schools in Japan. Previous reports on their effectiveness were based on surveys conducted several months after the education. We aimed to evaluate whether cancer education for children influenced their behavioral changes in adulthood. We targeted schools where the Japan Cancer Society has conducted the programs since 2011 and the program participants are older than 21 years currently. Invitations were sent to the participants and controls who graduated one year before or after the participants, and answers were obtained using an online questionnaire. Data were collected on the willingness to undergo cancer screening, sociodemographic characteristics, healthy behaviors, and health literacy. We compared the data from the program participants with those from controls. We requested cooperation from 13 schools; however, only one agreed. The common reason for refusal was privacy concerns. In the all-boys participating school in Tokyo, there was no significant difference in background information between the cancer education (38 participants) and control (55 participants) groups. Multiple linear regression showed that healthcare or welfare education background (β = 0.25, p = 0.01) and health literacy (β = 0.24, p = 0.02) were significant predictors of cancer screening intention, while the presence of cancer education (p = 0.25) was not. Despite severe selection bias, this is the first study to examine the long-term impacts of cancer education. We found no significant impacts on the measured outcome. However, the educational content at that time differed from that of today, and the program's efficacy should not be negated.

Effect of a Theory-Based Narrative Video on Colorectal Cancer Screening Intention, Knowledge, and Psychosocial Variables Among a Predominantly Hispanic Population.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the third leading cause of cancer death in the USA. Latinx adults are overrepresented in late-stage CRC diagnosis as CRC screening utilization remains low among Latinx-identifying individuals. This study aims to evaluate the effect of a theory-based narrative video following a culturally appropriate storyline on CRC screening intention, knowledge, and psychosocial variables along the U.S.-Mexico border. We designed and analyzed a non-randomized pre-posttest evaluation of a narrative, culturally tailored video embedded within a community program. The study is set in the U.S.-Mexico border community. Outreach provided a link or QR code to access the survey. In all, 458 participants started the survey, and 304 completed the survey. Participants were recruited through flyers distributed throughout various community events by the program's community health workers and via social media. The intervention evaluated changes in participant's knowledge, perceived barriers, perceived susceptibility, self-efficacy, and perceived benefits and intention to screen. Participants were a mean age of 39 and identified mainly as female (72.7%) and Hispanic/Latinx (88.49%). After viewing the narrative video, participants had significantly improved perceived susceptibility, self-efficacy, and benefits, while perceived barriers and sense of fatalism significantly decreased. Paradoxically, this was associated with a significant decrease in knowledge scores. Results from this intervention suggest that a theory-based narrative video following a culturally appropriate storyline effectively improves psychosocial variables and intention to carry out CRC screening in a predominantly Hispanic border population.

Correlates of intention to screen for cervical cancer among adult women in Kyotera District, Central Uganda: a community based cross-sectional study

IntroductionCervical cancer continues to pose a major public health challenge in low-income countries. Cervical cancer screening programs enable early detection and effectively reduce the incidence of cervical cancer as well as late-stage diagnosis and mortality. However, screening uptake remains suboptimal in Uganda. This study assessed correlates of intention to screen for cervical cancer among women in the Kyotera district of Central Uganda.MethodsWe analyzed cross-sectional data collected to determine the effectiveness of community audio towers (CATs) as a modality of health communication to support cervical cancer prevention. Women (n = 430) aged 21–60 years without a prior history of cervical cancer screening were surveyed about demographics, sources of health information and cervical cancer screening intentions in 2020. We used generalized linear modelling with modified Poisson regression and backwards variable elimination to identify adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to determine factors associated with intention to screen for cervical cancer.ResultsHalf (50.2%) of the participants had intentions to screen for cervical cancer within twelve months and 26.5% had moderate knowledge about cervical cancer. Nearly half (46.0%) considered themselves at risk of cervical cancer. Compared to residents who primarily received their health information from social media and radio, participants who received health information primarily from CATs (aPR:0.64, 95% CI:0.52–0.80, p < 0.001) and TV (aPR:0.52, 95% CI:0.34–0.82, p = 0.005) had a lower prevalence of intention to screen for cervical cancer. The prevalence of intentions to screen for cervical cancer in twelve months was higher among those resided in town councils (aPR:1.44, 95% CI:1.12–1.86, p = 0.004) compared to rural areas, and higher among those who considered themselves to be at risk of cervical cancer (aPR:1.74, 95% CI:1.28–2.36, p < 0.001) compared to those who did not.ConclusionsWe found suboptimal prevalence of intentions to screen for cervical cancer among women in central Uganda. Additional research and implementation projects are needed to increase cervical cancer screening. Targeting risk perceptions and behavioral approaches to increase intentions could be effective in future intervention work. Based on urban-rural differences, additional work is needed to support equitable sharing of information to support cancer prevention messaging; CATs and TV may best help reach those with lower intentions to screen based on our research.

Unravelling moderated mediating effects of loss aversion, information avoidance and self-efficacy on cancer fear and cancer screening.

Cancer health campaigns provide information to drive early detection. To examine the effect of cancer fear on cancer screening focusing on the mediating role of loss aversion, a concept derived from prospect theory. We hypothesize that fear initiates negative beliefs that cancer can cause the loss of way of life leading to information avoidance, and indirectly influences cancer screening intentions. This theoretical model is conditional, in that one's degree of self-efficacy moderates cancer screening intentions. A cross-sectional sample (N = 371), aged 35 to 70, recruited via an online panel. Participants completed a questionnaire containing demographic and examined variables. Using conditional process, we tested the proposed theoretical framework. Cancer fear was positively associated with cancer screening, and an indirect path was found where loss aversion and information avoidance negatively mediated the relationship. Self-efficacy was found to significantly moderate information avoidance and cancer screening intentions. Among those who reported high information avoidance, less self-efficacious individuals had lower cancer screening intentions compared to those more self-efficacious. We confirm extant literature that negative views of cancer lead to loss aversion and information avoidance. Using prospect theory can help make messaging for cancer screening more effective.

Linking Pathways from Perceived Absolute and Comparative Risk to Colorectal Cancer Screening Intention: Towards an Extended Cognitive Mediation Model

ABSTRACT Digital media platforms are crucial in providing health information to the public, including learning about cancer prevention strategies. Although the Cognitive Mediation Model (CMM) is a sound theoretical framework for explaining the underpinning process of health knowledge acquisition, one important remaining gap is how individuals are motivated to process health information through different discussion-generated elaboration strategies. To better understand the knowledge acquisition process, this paper extends the CMM in the context of colorectal cancer prevention. We introduced perceived absolute risk and perceived comparative risk as two distinct risk assessments as the antecedents facilitating individuals’ attention to cancer information on digital media, two types of interpersonal communication as discussion-generated elaboration strategies, and two dimensions of knowledge assessment in our extended CMM. Based on a nationally representative online survey among 965 Chinese public, we found that two types of risk perception were positively associated with paying attention to colorectal cancer information on digital media, which in turn facilitated both types of interpersonal communication. However, information processing strategies differed in leading to cancer knowledge and screening intention. Only subjective knowledge was positively associated with colorectal screening intention. Our findings offered implications for the literature and health promotion practices.

Abstract 3469: Exploring the impact of a giant inflatable colon on the level of awareness, knowledge, and intent for colorectal cancer screening among men attending two state fairs in the Midwest

Abstract Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of an interactive inflatable colon as an effective educational tool to increase colorectal cancer (CRC) awareness, knowledge, and screening intention among men attending the Wisconsin (WI) and Minnesota (MN) state fairs. Methods: Eligible study participants were self-identified men aged 18-75 who spoke English, were residents of WI or MN, and able to read in English. The study was employed during the final operating weekend of both the 2023 WI State Fair (August 11-13) and the MN State Fair (September 1-3). Eligible participants completed: (1) a pre-survey, (2) an unguided tour of the inflatable “Super Colon”, and then (3) a post-survey. The primary outcomes of interest were change in awareness (two items), knowledge (four items), and behavioral intent to obtain CRC screening (one item) from pre- to post-survey. Chi-square tests were used to examine study site differences and to explore the association between demographics and behaviors (awareness, knowledge, intentions) before entry to the Super Colon. McNemar’s test were employed to test if there were significant differences in the distributions from pre- to post-survey. Results: A total of 940 eligible participants were included in the study sample. The men self-identified their race/ethnicity as Non-Hispanic (NH) White (72%), followed by NH other (12%), NH Black (9%), and Hispanic (8%). Race and ethnicity significantly varied by study site (&amp;lt;.0001) with participants from WI more likely being members of racial/ethnic groups that are often medically underserved (33% vs. 24% in MN). Only 13% of participants had walked through an inflatable colon before. Of those who were screening-age appropriate (age 45 or older), 89% had been screened for CRC previously. With the exception of one question, baseline CRC knowledge was relatively high among our study sample. Interestingly, having higher confidence of their awareness level was inversely associated with higher knowledge. As a result of touring the Super Colon, a significant improvement in confidence in individuals’ knowledge of CRC (&amp;lt;.0001), knowledge regarding a colon polyp (&amp;lt;.0001), and intentions to be screened in the future (&amp;lt;.0001) were observed. Most participants (95%) agreed that the Super Colon is an effective educational tool to teach people about CRC. Conclusion: Since both encouraging CRC screening uptake and increasing research study participation among men can be a difficult task, these findings emphasize the crucial role of community-based educational initiatives in achieving these goals. Our findings affirm how the three-dimensional interior of the Super Colon is as an effective educational tool for promoting CRC early detection screening behaviors among men and increasing their awareness. Citation Format: Ami E. Sedani, Kelly K. Rifelj, Malcolm S. Bevel, Cordero L. McCall, Mckenzi Rogalla, Lisa Laliberte, Kiara Ellis, Rebekah J. Pratt, Charles R. Rogers. Exploring the impact of a giant inflatable colon on the level of awareness, knowledge, and intent for colorectal cancer screening among men attending two state fairs in the Midwest [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3469.

Factors Influencing Prostate Cancer Screening Intentions in Lebanese Men.

The objective of this study is to investigate the perceived obstacles and willingness of Lebanese men aged 40 and above to undergo screening for prostate cancer. A cross-sectional research design was employed. The study utilized a survey questionnaire to collect data on various factors influencing screening behaviors. The research instrument consisted of a comprehensive survey questionnaire that incorporated validated scales to assess barriers to prostate cancer screening, intention to screen, and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). The study found that the 120 participants had an average IPSS score of 7.20 ± 2.23, most people (70%) had mild symptoms of prostate cancer, whereas others had moderate (20%) or severe symptoms (10%). The majority of the men indicated a low to moderate inclination to undergo screening through Prostate-specific antigen testing, or digital rectal examination (DRE) (PSA), with 76% considering DRE and 70% considering PSA. The main barriers to screening included the dread of receiving distressing outcomes (48%) and a lack of understanding about the screening procedure (54%). The study identified key factors affecting the intention to undergo a prostate cancer screening. Regarding DREs, these factors included the perceived danger of the illness and prior information from doctors about prostate conditions. When it came to the intention to undergo screening through the prostate-specific antigen test (PSA), determinants included the perceived threat of the disease, one's general health perception, and prior information from doctors about prostate-related issues. Additionally, a significant proportion of participants believed that prostate cancer was not a serious illness (56%) and 57% thought DRE was embarrassing. The participants displayed a low willingness to get screened for prostate cancer. Implementing interventions that focus on increasing awareness of the disease and its associated risks could potentially reduce the barriers and boost participation in prostate cancer screening.

The triad of knowledge, regular medical consultation, and recommendations for enhanced breast cancer screening intention in Morocco

Purpose The low rate of breast cancer screening in Morocco is linked to delayed diagnosis and increased mortality rates. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the association between screening intention and knowledge levels. Our objective was to assess the level of knowledge regarding breast cancer and screening, identify the determinants of this knowledge, and determine predictive factors for screening intention.MethodsA cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 1014 women in the city of Essaouira, Morocco, during the years 2018–2020. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors using SPSS software.ResultsWe found an above-average level of knowledge (67%). These knowledge levels were associated with several personal characteristics. Moreover, these knowledge levels proved to be powerful predictive factors for the intention to undergo screening, along with regular medical consultations and recommendations to undergo screening.ConclusionWomen had a high level of knowledge about breast cancer and its characteristics. These knowledge levels were strongly associated with the intention to undergo screening. However, despite this, the low participation rate encourages the reinforcement of research to align knowledge, intention, and screening practices.

Climate change perception and its association with cancer screening intent.

As the climate crisis deepens, its adverse effects on human health are becoming evident, including impacts on cancer pathogenesis and treatment. This study explored the link between individuals' awareness of the health impacts of climate change and interest in cancer screening. Using the 2021 Health Information National Trends Survey, our study demonstrated astatistically significant association between recognition of climate change as a personal health threat and interest in cancer screening. Although the study's retrospective nature and self-reported data pose some limitations, these findings signal a promising avenue for future research on the intersection of climate and cancer risk. This research supports the development of public health interventions that incorporate components of environmental health literacy alongside cancer screening efforts.

Provider communication contributes to colorectal cancer screening intention through improving screening outcome expectancies and perceived behavioral control

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening continues to be underutilized in the US despite the availability of multiple effective, guideline-recommended screening options. Provider recommendation has been consistently shown to improve screening completion. Yet, available literature provides little information as to how specific information providers communicate influence patient decision-making about CRC screening. We tested the pathways through which information communicated by providers about the “Why” and “How” of CRC screening using the mt-sDNA test contributes to intention to complete the test. Data came from a behavioral theory-informed survey that we developed to identify psychosocial factors associated with mt-sDNA screening. RTI International administered the survey between 03/2022-06/2022 to a sample of US adults ages 45–75 who received a valid order for mt-sDNA screening with a shipping date between 5/2021-9/2021. Participants completed an electronic or paper survey. We tested the proposed relationships using structural equation modeling and tested indirect effects using Monte Carlo method. A total of 2,973 participants completed the survey (response rate: 21.7%) and 81.6% (n = 2,427) reported have had a conversation with their health care provider about mt-sDNA screening before the test was ordered. We found that “Why” information from providers was positively associated with perceived effectiveness of mt-sDNA screening, while “How” information was positively associated with perceived ease of use. “Why” information contributed to screening intention through perceived effectiveness while “How” information contributed to screening intention through perceived ease of use. These findings emphasize the critical role of provider communication in shaping patient decision-making regarding CRC screening. CRC screening interventions could consider implementing provider-patient communication strategies focusing on improving patient understanding of the rationale for CRC screening and the effectiveness of available screening options as well as addressing barriers and enhancing patients’ self-efficacy in completing their preferred screening option.

Effects of social comparison framing of racial health disparities and behaviors

Abstract Messages that feature intergroup comparisons (social comparison frames) regularly communicate the relative prevalence of health problems and preventive behaviors. While prior studies find that comparing disease risks between racial groups are met with resistance from the disadvantaged group, we extended existing research by investigating if behavioral comparisons which show that the higher-risk group also excels in disease prevention efforts could mitigate negative impacts of disease risk comparisons. We conducted two preregistered experiments to examine the effects of comparing cancer risks and the prevalence of screening behaviors between Black and White Americans. Communicating racial disparities in breast cancer mortality reduced perceived risks and fear among White Americans (the less-at-risk group) and decreased cancer screening intention among Black Americans (the disadvantaged group). Adding cancer screening prevalence comparisons did not shift screening intentions among Black Americans but changed their support for disparity-reducing policies, though the effects depended on the disease in question.

Health technologies as innovative tools to prevent cervical cancer in low -and-middle income countries

Introduction: Cervical cancer's mortality and morbidity, as well as the prospect of effective screening-based prevention, make it a critical area of intervention attention. By engaging social support groups in health education, participation in cervical c cancer screening and early diagnosis of the illness in the community is enhanced. In the continuous efforts to enhance cervical cancer prevention, control, and management, technology, and digital health will play a significant role. As a result of mHealth educational activities in this region, knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors, warning signs and symptoms, and information on HPV vaccination improved. By boosting screening rates, raising awareness, and encouraging early diagnosis, mHealth methods can help reduce the symptoms of cervical cancer. These initiatives use mobile technology to give targeted and individualized information, reminders, and support, allowing individuals to be proactive in cervical cancer prevention and screening. Objective: This study shows that e-health interventions can improve cervical cancer screening awareness, intention, and uptake. It indicates that electronics may be used to reach out to poor and medium-income countries as well as minority populations all around the world. Conclusion: The mobile health age has shown promising promise for more efficient health care delivery throughout the world. The term "mobile" connotes the freedom and flexibility to complete any work, anywhere and at any time, as it may be utilized to prevent cervical cancer in women by raising public awareness about Pap smear screening. It is critical to stress that the use of health technology in cervical cancer screening programs should be accompanied by suitable infrastructure, training, and supporting policies to enable long-term sustainability and equal access to services.

Didactic and narrative persuasion: An experiment to promote colorectal cancer screening.

We tested whether a didactic and a narrative video (i.e. educational content and personal stories versus irrelevant information) could boost colorectal cancer (CRC) screening intention directly and through cognitive predictors of CRC screening behavior. We also tested whether exposure to a story changed participants' affective forecasting, reducing the perception of negative emotions associated with CRC screening (disgust, embarrassment, and fear). The study was conducted online with a between-participants design and recruiting a convenience sample (N = 375). We found that, compared with watching the control video, being exposed to the narrative video about CRC screening was indirectly associated with greater screening intention via vicarious experience and positive attitudes, whereas watching the didactic video was positively associated with CRC screening intention only among participants who had received an invitation letter but did not get screened, and among those yet to receive an invitation to screen. In the latter group, screening intention was boosted through positive attitudes. Our findings do not confirm that stories change affective forecasting, but narration likely fosters messages acceptance through vicarious experience. We also found support for the effectiveness of physicians' recommendations in promoting CRC screening, an intervention that might be effectively administered through a generalized, cost-effective video.

Celebrity Identification and Reasoned Action: An Integrative Model of the Relationship Between Media Use and Breast Cancer Screening Intention

ABSTRACT This study investigates the relationship between media use and breast cancer screening intentions by integrating the celebrity identification model and the theory of reasoned action. It tests an integrative model with survey data from 315 U.S. adult women. The study found that media use for breast cancer information was positively associated with parasocial interaction (PSI) and identification with celebrities who have or have had breast cancer; PSI was positively associated with attitudes, descriptive and injunctive norms in breast cancer screening, while identification with celebrities was positively associated with descriptive norms; attitudes, injunctive norms and descriptive norms were positively associated with breast cancer screening intentions. The study supports the mediating effect of PSI, identification, attitudes, and descriptive and injunctive norms on the association between media use and breast cancer prevention intentions.

Assessing the impact of the skin cancer awareness now (SCAN!) intervention several months following the intervention

BackgroundWest Virginia (WV) is the third most rural state in the US and has a high incidence of skin cancer. Intervention efforts in WV are impeded by structural barriers, low health literacy, and lack of health care access. Community pharmacies and pharmacists are highly accessible and may be helpful in promoting skin cancer prevention. Objective(s)The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of the Skin Cancer Awareness Now (SCAN!) pharmacy-based sun-safety intervention at follow-up. MethodsSurveys assessed SCAN’s effect on skin cancer prevention at preintervention and follow-up. The follow-up survey was administered between 8 and 12 months after our initial feasibility study. Questions included demographics, cancer history, cancer worry, knowledge, cancer communication, and skin cancer screening intentions. Multivariate repeated measures ANOVA assessed the change in worry, importance, knowledge, and intentions to be sun safe. ResultsParticipants (n=56, response rate= 62.2%) had a mean age of 44.7 (standard deviation: 19.3) years. Most were females (87.5%), Whites (92.9%), and 48.2% lived in rural areas. Knowledge and intentions significantly improved over time. At follow-up, participants (41.1%) mentioned that they plan on discussing skin cancer prevention with their pharmacist in the future. ConclusionThe SCAN! intervention can be a useful resource for skin cancer prevention in community pharmacy settings. Community pharmacies have the potential to be change agents in skin cancer prevention by providing education on sun protection or detection and by promoting sun-safety behaviors.