Interactive, culturally sensitive education on colorectal cancer screening.
BACKGROUND
Increasing colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) can have a substantial positive impact on morbidity and mortality.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this report is to describe the development and feasibility testing of a computer-based, theory-guided educational program designed to increase CRCS.


METHODS
This mixed-methods study used focus groups and subsequent randomized controlled trial design.


METHODS
Participants (N = 199) were randomized to an intervention or control group; 75% were African American; mean age was 57.36 (SD = 6.8); 71% were male.


METHODS
Previously validated measures on knowledge, beliefs, and screening test adherence were used to establish pre- and post-intervention perceptions. Feasibility was measured by response and completion rates, and participants' perceptions of the program.


RESULTS
Before feasibility testing, the program was presented to 2 focus groups. Changes were made to the program based on discussion, leading to a visually appealing, easy to understand and navigate, self-paced program. In the RCT pilot test that followed, of the participants in the intervention group, 80% said the education helped them decide to get CRCS; 49% agreed it helped them overcome barriers; 91% agreed it was useful, 68% thought it raised new concerns about cancer, but only 30% said it made them worry about CRC; 95% agreed their doctor's office should continue giving such education, and 99% said they would inform family about the program.


CONCLUSIONS
The response rate of 83% demonstrated feasibility of conducting colorectal cancer education in the primary care setting; overall the program was well received; participants averaged 23 minutes to complete it. Participants sought no help from attending data collectors and navigated the revised touch screen program with ease. Computer-based education is feasible in primary care clinics.
Menon
Usha
U
University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60625, USA. umenon@uic.edu
Szalacha
Laura A
LA
Belue
Rhonda
R
Rugen
Kathryn
K
Martin
Kelly R
KR
Kinney
Anita Y
AY
D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D000368:Aged; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000208:ethnology / Q000517:prevention & control; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine / Q000523:psychology*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000208:ethnology*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D044465:White People / Q000193:education