Multiple health risk behaviors in Latinos diagnosed with colorectal cancer and their families

Despite recent declines in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality in the United States, major disparities persist for minorities and underserved populations. Compared to non-Hispanic Whites, Hispanics are more likely to present with early onset, advanced stage disease and a higher disease-specific mortality rate. We are conducting a population-based study of 2,500 Hispanic/Latino patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the state of California. We conducted telephone surveys among a sample of these patients (N=137) and their primary support person to determine the feasibility of a family-based intervention to promote cancer knowledge and positive health behaviors during and after medical treatment. Findings from this pilot work indicate that 100% of primary support persons reported an interest in participating in a health care education program. Multiple health risk behaviors for colorectal cancer were reported: 18% of households had an active smoker; 41% reported 3+ servings of red/processed meat per week; 66% reported little/occasional/no physical activity and 72% reported spending some/most of the time watching TV. Programs targeted specifically at reducing these risk factors among this high-risk population are needed. In addition, it is currently unclear how much information about colorectal cancer is understood in this patient population and whether they are sharing this information with their family members. For family members of patients diagnosed with cancer who are at higher risk of cancer in the future, a deeper understanding of effective approaches and motivation for improved personal risk behaviors may contribute to advancing cancer knowledge, care, and prevention efforts.