The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #38027

T. G. Hislop, MDCM, Cancer Control Research, BC Cancer Agency, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6, Canada, 604-877-6098-3059, ghislop@bccancer.bc.ca and Rob W. Inrig, MEd, Richmond School Board, 7811 Granville Avenue, Richmond, BC V6Y 3E3, Canada.

A short three-session innovative curriculum has been developed on cancer prevention and early detection for high school students. This includes three drama vignettes which are produced on video with the primary purposes of provoking interest and questioning around attitudes that prohibit behaviour change (thus facilitating the teachable moment) and teacher support materials to convey the factual information on cancer prevention and early detection. Issues of invincibility, risk, deception and trust are addressed in the videos which are intended to serve as 'launch material' for a meaningful discussion that will help students consider lifestyle implications. The teacher support materials will provide accurate, relevant and timely information on cancer risk factors, cancer causation and early detection methods, with particular emphasis on the importance of lifestyle in cancer causation. This curriculum was evaluated in the classrooms of Grade 10 science students by classroom surveys and focus groups of students and teachers. The results of the evaluation will be presented.

Learning Objectives:

• To better understand the students' understanding of cancer, its causation and the role of early detection;
• To recognize the need to engage the student by innovative approaches in order to create the teachable moment;
• To evaluate the new curriculum in the classroom for knowledge and attitudinal changes in cancer prevention and early detection.

Keywords: Education, Cancer Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Curriculum (including videos) available for purchase.