Assessing the Use of Colorectal Cancer Screening Materials in Appalachia
Author Information
Author(s): Vanderpool Robin C MPH, CHES, Coyne Cathy A PhD
Primary Institution: University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Control Program
Hypothesis
Are Screen for Life materials being used and distributed by state or local organizations serving Appalachian residents?
Conclusion
More guidance on how to implement the Screen for Life campaign as a targeted health communication media campaign would be helpful.
Supporting Evidence
- Screen for Life materials were used more when distributed by the ACN through its established coalitions and field staff.
- State health departments did not report the extent of activities or the quantitative distribution described by the ACN programs.
- Many local respondents were unfamiliar with Screen for Life and used the materials in a general, unplanned way.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well cancer screening materials were shared and used in Appalachian communities, finding that many people didn't know about them.
Methodology
Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with 13 state and local informants in three Appalachian states.
Potential Biases
Respondents may have communicated their own agendas or biases toward the survey's subject matter.
Limitations
The findings cannot be generalized due to the subjective nature of qualitative research and the small sample size.
Participant Demographics
Participants included state and local informants from various community organizations in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
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