Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #115618

Janice V. Bowie, PhD, MPH, Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 743, Baltimore, MD 21205-1996 and Kim Dobson Sydnor, PhD, Public Health Program, Morgan State University, 1700 E. Cold Spring Lane, Jenkins Bldg - Suite 333, Baltimore, MD 21251, (443)885-4013, ksydnor@jewel.morgan.edu.

Problem: Health disparities in cancer morbidity and mortality exist for African Americans. Such disparity suggests that targeted interventions may be needed to address this problem. Faith institutions are seen as natural partners for effectively disseminating cancer prevention information because of their historically central place within the African American community. Purpose: Building on prior research, the purpose of this study was to use both qualitative and quantitative data from church members to develop tailored cancer prevention promotion materials for a cadre of African American churches as a first stage to effective program delivery. Methods: Focus group sessions were held with local African American churches across various denominations to elicit understanding of format, content and look of cancer material that would prove useful to the church members. Each focus group participant also completed a self-administered survey. Results: Twenty churches participated in the session, with a total of N= 307 participants. Analysis of the qualitative and quantitative data indicated that across congregations both written and verbal communication would be effective delivery mechanisms for cancer prevention material. Key components were the desire for both written and visual presentation. Representatives from each of the churches reviewed and refined test products. From this process, an informational notebook and a video are in final stages of development. Implications: The interest of churches in future partnering across a variety of health issues is a valuable product from this type of engaged process. Future work will seek to evaluate the effectiveness of the tailored material versus standard material developed.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the value in engaging recipients in developing cancer education materials.
• Apply the lessons learned to the development of other health education programs.
• Develop an appreciation for the importance of building relationships over time with community partners.

Keywords: African American, Community Participation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.