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CATEGORY/THEME:Prevention Science and Emerging High-Priority Policy Issues
Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer death among women. If individuals received screening per recommended guidelines, it is estimated that 60% of deaths would be saved. Currently, only 55% of women are up to date with colorectal cancer screening. A Healthy People 2020 goal is to increase colorectal cancer screening rates to 75%. Previous research indicates that factors influencing informed decisions about CRC screening intention and adherence are different for women when compared to men. At this time, there are no interactive mobile applications (apps) designed to increase informed decisions about colorectal cancer screening among women. The purpose of this study is to explore the usability, acceptability, and satisfaction with and establish the effects of a mobile app designed to increase CRC screening intention among 45-64 year old women.
Methods: Using a previously tested conceptual model and instruments/subscales on social support, colorectal cancer screening perceptions, and an informed decision about colorectal cancer screening, an interactive informed decision mobile app for CRC screening (My LifeCloud) was developed and pilot tested. African American and Caucasian women (N = 41) ages 45-64 were recruited via social networks, beauty salons, and community organizations to complete surveys on colorectal cancer perceptions and an informed decision about CRC screening, use the “My LifeCloud” app (iPhone, iPad, or Android), and complete a process evaluation.
Results: 80.6% strongly agree/agreed the app made them think about CRC screening. 83.8% strongly agree/agreed that the mobile app provided enough information to make a decision about CRC screening. 86.1% strongly agree/agreed that a mobile app like the one in the current study could help them talk with their provider about CRC screening. Family & spouse were identified most often (63.2%) as people the participants would discuss their CRC screening decision with.
Conclusions: This study is one of the first to use a conceptual model and validated instruments to develop an interactive mobile app to increase informed decisions about CRC screening. The participants found the mobile app easy to use and useful in making CRC screening decisions. These interventions must include social support in order to be effective. It is important for individuals involved with public health prevention to find new strategies that patients find engaging, and have the potential to increase patient-provider communication.
Keywords: CRC screening, mobile application, informed decision, social support