Making epidemiologic studies responsive to the needs of participants and communities: the Carolina Breast Cancer Study experience.
In this report, we present the results of surveys administered to participants and nonparticipants in the Carolina Breast Cancer Study (CBCS). Surveys and structured interviews were administered to determine women's concerns regarding participation in research studies, access to health care, and beliefs regarding causes of breast cancer. Survey results showed the highest concern for the growing number of women diagnosed with breast cancer in North Carolina and potential environmental agents that may cause breast cancer. Negative responses were noted for time constraints related to participation and lack of familiarity with epidemiologic research; another concern noted was the lack of centralized information regarding breast cancer treatment. These issues were addressed by (1) developing a web site that provided background information about the CBCS, summaries of published study results, and information about the etiology of breast cancer; and (2) creating a statewide, comprehensive breast cancer resource directory for women who need information about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. These two projects were carried out in collaboration with breast cancer advocates, and demonstrate the important role that advocates can play in making epidemiologic research more responsive to the needs of communities.
Plummer
Patricia
P
Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7435, USA.
Jackson
Susan
S
Konarski
Jamie
J
Mahanna
Elizabeth
E
Dunmore
Carolyn
C
Regan
Georgette
G
Mattingly
Dianne
D
Parker
Barbara
B
Williams
Sara
S
Andrews
Catherine
C
Vannapppagari
Vani
V
Hall
Susan
S
Deming
Sandra
S
Hodgson
Elizabeth
E
Moorman
Patricia
P
Newman
Beth
B
Millikan
Robert
R
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D003195:Computer Communication Networks; D015340:Epidemiologic Research Design; D016021:Epidemiologic Studies; D005260:Female; D006295:Health Resources; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009657:North Carolina / Q000453:epidemiology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010358:Patient Participation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012111:Residence Characteristics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health