A Community-Engaged, Mixed-Methods Approach to Prioritizing Needs in a Statewide Assessment of Community Cancer Needs
2024

Community Cancer Needs Assessment in Kentucky

Sample size: 162 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jessica R. Thompson, Todd Burus, Caree McAfee, Christine Stroebel, Madeline Brown, Keeghan Francis, Melinda Rogers, Jennifer Knight, Elaine Russell, Connie Sorrell, Elizabeth Westbrook, Pamela C. Hull

Primary Institution: University of Kentucky

Hypothesis

How can community input be used to prioritize cancer-related needs in Kentucky?

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of concept mapping in identifying and prioritizing cancer-related needs in Kentucky.

Supporting Evidence

  • Kentucky has the highest cancer incidence and death rates in the US.
  • 162 participants contributed to the needs assessment through online activities.
  • High-priority areas identified included lung cancer screening and HPV vaccination.
  • Community input was gathered through surveys and focus groups.
  • The study highlights the importance of addressing health disparities in Kentucky.

Takeaway

This study asked people in Kentucky what they think are the most important cancer issues, and they came up with ideas to help solve them.

Methodology

The study used a mixed-methods approach, including online concept mapping and surveys to gather community input.

Potential Biases

Participants may have been predominantly from higher socioeconomic backgrounds, which could skew the results.

Limitations

The study may not fully represent the opinions of all Kentucky residents due to remote recruitment and potential digital access issues.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 93 individuals with a mean age of 50, predominantly non-Hispanic White, with 39.3% from rural areas.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.5888/pcd21.240183

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