ASPO Abstracts
Using photovoice methodology to identify health behavior change intervention preferences of breast cancer survivors at the United States/Mexico border
Category: Cancer Health Disparities
Conference Year: 2022
Abstract Body:
Purpose: Using a community-based participatory approach, we engaged in qualitative exploration of lifestyle behaviors of Mexican-origin breast cancer survivors to characterize knowledge and attitudes towards healthy diet and physical activity behaviors and determine programming preferences for cancer survivors living on the US/Mexico border. Methods: We conducted a 9-week photovoice project with Mexican-origin breast cancer survivors in Nogales, Sonora. The project was developed via community-academic partnership between Arizona Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network and Mariposa Community Health Center. Photovoice explored survivor viewpoints on lifestyle behaviors and facilitators/barriers to health after cancer through photographs and group discussion. Meeting themes centered on food, activity, and social support and were chosen based on preliminary data.Results: Six breast cancer survivors participated in photovoice. Sessions began with presentations of participant photographs/narratives and concluded with group discussion of common themes. Participants perceived that cancer survivors need not follow a restrictive diet after treatment. They consider what is healthy for the general population as healthy for them. They emphasized the connection between food and culture and the importance of enjoying meals with others. While they were less concerned with regimented exercise routines to support health, photos revealed that activity was broadly defined to include physical activity as well as other wellness activities such as walking, biking, listening to music, and time with friends/family. They identified activity as a tool to relieve anxiety related to their cancer diagnosis. Participants noted the importance of giving and receiving social support and emphasized altruism to support positive mood and self-confidence during survivorship. Conclusions: A strong academic-community partnership facilitated engagement of cancer survivors in photovoice. Factors to consider when adapting and implementing a lifestyle behavior change intervention for cancer survivors living along the US/Mexico border include: 1) incorporation of traditional Mexican diet, 2) perception of physical activity, and 3) inclusion of peer and family support/activities.
Keywords: border health, cancer survivorship, photovoice