Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs on biospecimen research among Pacific Islanders: A community based participatory research project of the WINCART Center (Weaving an Islander Network for Cancer Awareness, Research and Training Center)

Background The purpose of this community-based participatory research pilot project is to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs that Pacific Islanders (PI) hold towards biospecimen collection, use, and banking all of which can aid in medical diagnosis and basic research. PIs are the focus of this research because of their under-representation in medical and behavioral research despite disproportionately high rates of certain cancers (cervical, breast, lung, etc.).

Methods A total of 60 PI adults living in Southern California completed a paper-and-pencil basic demographic questionnaire and a semi-structured one-on-one interview. PI community leaders and the academic/research staff work together in developing the study materials such as the recruitment flyer, questionnaire and interview items. Community partners recruited study participants and conducted the interviews.

Results Pacific Islanders from our study sample generally do not have trepidations with being involved in biospecimen-related research studies. They understand the benefits such studies have on cancer-related treatments. However, most agree that they would feel more comfortable providing samples if they were fully informed about the procedures and research involved plus be provided with results when it has been concluded.

Discussion In addition to utilizing the results to design and pilot a community education campaign, these findings will fill important knowledge gaps and inform health care providers, researchers, policy makers and communities about the factors that impact PI knowledge, attitudes, participation and utilization of beneficial biomedical and behavioral procedures related to reducing cancer disparities.