Because ver batim isn't enough: Adaptation of the Spanish language Cancer Education Guide into a culturally and linguistically appropriate health education material

Health education materials that provide accurate and culturally and linguistically appropriate information play an important supporting role in cancer prevention and control. This research project aimed to evaluate the Spanish translation of the South Carolina Cancer Alliance Cancer Education Guide (CEG) and create a more culturally and linguistically appropriate CEG. The translated CEG was systematically evaluated using the Suitability Assessment of Materials instrument; underwent comprehensive revision; was submitted for review by community members and experts; and was further revised for implementation and evaluation in the community. The ver batim translation of the CEG received an inadequate SAM score, primarily due to the inclusion of data for non-Hispanic groups, lack of illustrations representative of the Hispanic population, and failure to address aspects of Hispanic culture. The community review further identified the need to address cultural myths, barriers, and expectations, and inclusion of information about clinics and costs of screening services. Findings from the expert review reiterated the community's concerns, specifically, the need for a shorter, focused message in simpler language. As a result of this process, community member testimonies, a resource guide, culturally sensitive pictures and advice, and easier, more natural wordage were incorporated into a shorter, breast and cervical cancer-specific CEG. The material evaluation demonstrated the need for focused materials written at a low reading grade-level with culturally sensitive images and an information summary. This guided the CEG adaptation, which is currently being implemented in the community by promotoras and evaluated for its impact on cancer knowledge and screening behavior.