ASPO Abstracts
Application of narrative theory to improve cancer screening interventions in Maryland
Category: Behavioral Science & Health Communication
Conference Year: 2022
Abstract Body:
Introduction: This study aimed to characterize elements of an efficacious cancer screening narrative by identifying factors in addition to demographics among Maryland adults. We hypothesize that screening is predicted by personal cancer narrative factors consisting of (1)knowing someone with cancer, (2)knowledge of cancer symptoms, (3)belief in the impact of lifestyle on cancer and (4)belief in the importance of timely cancer treatment. Methods: A telephone administered panel survey about cancer screening of 431 Maryland residents age 18 and older was conducted in the Spring of 2020.Results: In multivariable logistic regression model, older age (OR=8.56 (95% CI: 4.77 to 15.32), being female (OR=2.62 (95% CI: 1.52 to 4.53), having graduate education (OR=2.49 (95% CI: 1.11 to 5.60) compared to those with high school education; and knowing the symptoms of cancer (OR-1.86 (95% CI: 1.07 to 3.22) each conveyed greater likelihood of being screened. In the opposite direction, having a domestic partner compared to being married (OR= 0.39 (95% CI: 0.21 to 0.72), having no health insurance (compared to private health insurance) (OR = 0.27 (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.0.62), and belief in lifestyle having no impact on cancer lowered the odds of getting screened (OR=0.08 (95% CI: 0.03 to 0 .23). These findings were noted in the context of adjustment for several demographic, access and beliefs.Discussion: Our novel finding that knowledge of cancer symptoms and the impact of lifestyle impact screening as narrative factors influences cancer screening and cancer prevention could be used to shape and target outreach interventions.
Keywords: Cancer screening; US; narrative theory; symptoms; lifestyle; cancer treatment