Randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy of a video and information leaflet versus information leaflet alone on patient knowledge about surveillance and cancer risk in ulcerative colitis.
OBJECTIVE
Knowledge of colorectal cancer risk in patients with ulcerative colitis is inadequate. The authors aimed to improve knowledge in a sample of patients and determine whether this was best achieved by a simple information leaflet or by watching a video reading a leaflet.


METHODS
Patients (n = 124) were recruited into a randomized controlled trial conducted from the gastroenterology outpatient departments of two Leicester hospitals. Participants completed a questionnaire prior to receiving the leaflet or viewing the video, immediately afterward, and 1 month later.


RESULTS
One hundred fifteen questionnaires were returned (response rate = 93%). Both videos and leaflets increased knowledge with mean percentage improvements in scores of 71% (95% CI = 40.2-100) and 49% (95% CI = 32.1-66), respectively. However, the difference between the two interventions was not statistically significant (Difference = 22%, 95% CI = -56.3-13.2, p = 0.2). After 1 month, knowledge levels decreased in both groups to 55% (95% CI = 33.2-75.8; video plus leaflet) and 36% (95% CI = 23.7-48.6; leaflet alone).


CONCLUSIONS
Leaflets and videos have an important role in reinforcing information provided by clinicians. However, there appears to be no immediate or prolonged advantage of a video over and above that of a simple information leaflet. The cost implications of producing a video, such as extra staff time, need to be weighed against the minor benefit that this medium has to offer.
Eaden
Jayne
J
Department of Gastroenterology, Walsgrave Hospital, Coventry, UK. jayne.eaden@btinternet.com
Abrams
Keith
K
Shears
Jon
J
Mayberry
John
J
D000328:Adult; D003093:Colitis, Ulcerative / Q000150:complications*; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010174:Pamphlets; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011159:Population Surveillance; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012307:Risk Factors; D014741:Video Recording / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*