Cancer information-seeking experiences: the implications of Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish language.
BACKGROUND
Strategies to support cancer information-seeking among Hispanics are needed.


METHODS
We analyzed data from the 2005 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) to explore cancer information-seeking experiences among respondents according to ethnicity and language of interview.


RESULTS
Over 80% of Spanish-speaking Hispanics had never looked for cancer information. Compared to English-speaking respondents, Spanish-speaking Hispanics who sought cancer information indicated their search took a lot of effort (67%), was hard to understand (54%), and frustrating (42%). Spanish-speaking Hispanics noted minimal confidence in obtaining cancer information.


CONCLUSIONS
Language and cultural differences must be considered in the design, implementation, and dissemination of cancer information.
Mid South Region Cancer Information Service, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Control Program 2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A230, Lexington, KY 40504, USA. robin@cis.uky.edu
Robin C
RC
Vanderpool
Julie
J
Kornfeld
Lila Finney
LF
Rutten
Linda
L
Squiers
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003144:Communication Barriers; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006293:Health Promotion; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000208:ethnology*; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007802:Language; D008297:Male; D008490:Medical Informatics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000208:ethnology*; D055815:Young Adult