Developing culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate role model stories to encourage cancer screening among older Chinese immigrants

The effectiveness of cancer screenings in optimizing health has been clearly demonstrated. Yet, documented disparities in cancer screening utilization exist by race/ethnicity and among the elderly. This paper describes the development of culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate role model stories as a strategy to encourage cancer screenings among older Chinese immigrants. Face-to-face interviews were conducted among older Chinese immigrants. An interview guide was developed based on literature, social and behavioral theory, and a planning framework called “Intervention Mapping”. The guide and related research protocols were translated into Chinese, and back-translated into English to ensure consistencies. All participants were interviewed by bilingual researchers in their native language (Mandarin). Each interview was tape recorded, transcribed in Chinese, translated in English and back translated, and analyzed by two trained researchers. A total of six role model stories were successfully developed from older Chinese immigrants. Based on experience and perspectives obtained, messages containing theoretical constructs and insights gained from assessment were carefully integrated into stories. Preliminary pilot testing of the stories showed that stories were viewed as relevant, and were effective in raising awareness and cancer screening intentions. The interview guide, as well as sample stories, with Chinese-English side-by-side translations will be shared. The underpinning cultural or theoretical constructs in the stories will be highlighted. Role model stories developed from the cultural minority group increase the chance that learners could identify with. In addition, stories described in appropriate languages can better reach older immigrants who might have difficulty in reading or speaking English.