The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #37565

Sarah Bauerle Bass, PhD, MPH¹, Linda Fleisher, MPH², Nancy McKeown-Conn², Denise A. James, BS, MEd², and Evelyn Gonzalez, MA². (1) Department of Health Studies, Temple University, 304 Vivacqua Hall, P.O. Box 2843, Philadelphia, PA 19122, 214-204-5110, sbass000@nimbus.temple.edu, (2) Atlantic Regional Office, Partnership Program, Cancer Information Service, A Program of the National Cancer Institute, 510 Township Line Road, 2nd Floor, Cheltenham, PA 19012

The cancer burden is not borne equally, shown in morbidity/mortality differences by gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. The Internet is one way to bring people quality cancer information but access to that information is also unequal. This "digital divide" requires approaches that address not just the lack of technology but the issues facing underserved audiences related to seeking and using health information. To elucidate how low-income minorities feel about having access to Internet information, the Cancer Information, Education and Research Program at Fox Chase Cancer Center conducted focus groups with urban African Americans and rural Latinos who were clients of community nursing centers in Philadelphia and Kennett Square, PA. Overall, clients indicated their willingness to use Internet information if technology was available. All the groups indicated, however, that lack of experience using computers was a major barrier to using the technology. Differences between the groups included urban residents more concerned with privacy issues, as well as feelings the Internet could give them the "whole" picture that they felt they did not get from doctors. Rural Latino residents felt having access would not only provide them with information but enable them to stay in touch with family. Quantitative surveys given to all participants indicated a complete dearth in computer or Internet skills by participants. These focus groups show that while it is important to have access to quality Internet health information, it is equally important to address the barriers that low-income communities have to adequately access and assess that information.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to

• Understand the scope of the digital divide and its relationship to Internet health information.
• Recognize the obstacles for low income populations in accessing Internet health information.
• Discuss strategies to bridge the digital divide and lack of access to Internet health information for low-income populations.

Keywords: Internet, Low-Income

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.