The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66698

Mary E. Costanza, MD¹, Mary Jo White, MS, MPH¹, Jennifer Stark¹, Anne Stoddard, ScD², Jill S Avrunin, MS², Roger Luckmann, MD, MPH³, and Lynn Clemow, PhD⁴. (1) Hematology/Oncology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue N, Worcester, MA 01655, (2) Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts School of Public Health, Room 401, Arnold House, Amherst, MA 01003, (3) Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, (4) Mount Sinai School of Medicine, 695 Lawrenceiville Road, Princeton, NJ 08540

PURPOSE: To identify predictors associated with intention to obtain CRC screening based on Weinstein’s Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM). METHODS: A survey was mailed to 1,681 female and 1,253 male patients (aged 50-75 years) of 37 primary care physicians. Questions were asked about socio-demographic characteristics, CRC screening barriers, prior utilization, screening intention, perceived risk, fears, and self-efficacy. We will use cross-classification and multiple logistic regression analysis to explore assoications among these factors and CRC screening intention. RESULTS: 1,880 surveys were returned for a response rate of 69%. 49% of respondents are up-to-date according to the American Cancer Society preferred CRC screening guidelines (54% of men and 46% of women). Of those up to date, 81% intend to be screened again, 14% are undecided, 5% have not thought about it and none have decided against it. Among the 51% not-up-to date, 60% intend to be screened, 32% are undecided, 9% have not thought about it, and <1% have decided against it. Of those advised by their PCP to have CRC screening, 80% have decided to be screened, while only 61% of those not advised intend to be screened. CONCLUSIONS: As with other cancer screens, prior screening utilization and physician recommendation are strong predictors of future CRC screening intention. Other characteristics and mediating factors associated with intention to be and not to be screened will be presented. Knowledge of these factors may accelerate adoption of CRC screening by informing messages and techniques used to tailor future interventions.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to:
• Identify several factors associated with resistance to CRC screening.
• More successfully tailor interventions to increase CRC screening.

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.

Handout (.ppt format, 152.5 kb)