Hispanic migrant and seasonal farmworker men are found in large numbers throughout the State of Florida, mostly from Mexican descent. This at-risk cancer sub-population experiences language, literacy and cultural barriers that can impact the acceptability and usability of important cancer control information. In order to produce relevant cancer education messages, we conducted a series of focus groups to learn about their information needs, cultural beliefs and social characteristics. Four focus groups (N=48 participants) were conducted among Hispanic migrant and seasonal farmworker men, recruited from migrant church missions and community sites. Group discussions were moderated by a male Mexican moderator. Questions addressed general life issues, family goals, health needs, health care barriers, cancer myths, beliefs and screening practices. Emergent themes in preliminary data analysis were: 1) the most important factors in their lives are family, health, and work; 2) belief that cancer equals death; 3) bumps and bruises can cause cancer; 4) prostate cancer can be transmitted sexually; and, 5) interactive group learning was the preferred learning format. Development of effective and relevant cancer control messages can be enhanced by utilizing “rich data” gained directly from members of the intended audience.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session participants will be able to: 1- examine the use and value of focus groups to gain insight into issues that Hispanic migrant and seasonal farmworker men would like to see in prostate cancer educational materials/media; 2- relate the practicalities and efficacy of using focus group methodology in a rural setting
Keywords: Latino Caucus, Migrant Farm Workers
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.