A cancer genetics education campaign: delivering parallel messages to clinicians and the public.
BACKGROUND
Up to 10% of all cancers are thought to have a familial basis through complex interactions between genes and environment.


METHODS
A community-wide education campaign was conducted that included several elements: a five part television news series; an educational newsletter; web site pages and links to educational materials; a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program for professionals; and an evaluation survey.


RESULTS
Survey estimates revealed that 39000 households recalled seeing the series; 14800 households changed their views about the risks of hereditary cancers; and about 9900 households were made more aware/informed about cancer and hereditary risk.


CONCLUSIONS
This awareness campaign broadened public knowledge about the myths and realities associated with genetic factors and cancer risk. It reinforced the importance of early screening for persons at high risk of cancer due to hereditary factors.
Piniewski-Bond
Joanne
J
Department of Educational Affairs, State University of New York at Buffalo, USA. joanne.bond@roswellpark.org
Celestino
Paul  B
P
Mahoney
Martin C
MC
Farrell
Carolyn D
CD
Bauer
Joseph E
JE
Hastrup
Janice L
JL
Cummings
K Michael
KM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000523:psychology; D006266:Health Education / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D012307:Risk Factors