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Paul Devereux, Ph.D., MPH (University of Nevada, Reno)

Community-Based Participatory Research Approach to Colorectal Cancer Screening in Latino Populations

Hispanics have lower colorectal cancer screening rates than other populations and are diagnosed with cancer at later stages. In national-level data, there are a number of barriers which have been identified to contribute to lower screening rates. However, because Hispanic populations are not homogenous yet are often lumped together, it is not clear whether these same barriers operate in a particular Hispanic community in Northern Nevada which is an area with lower screening rates compared to the rest of the country. Therefore, this community is proposing to conduct a local needs assessment.

The objectives of this study are:

• To utilize a community-based participatory research methodology to identify which colorectal cancer screening barriers are present in a specific underserved Latino community
• To identify community assets and needs within the population that support or hinder colorectal cancer screening, and
• To identify how best to educate the Latino community about screening options.

A minimum of three focus groups with 8 to 12 people each consisting of:

1. Female Hispanics 50 years and older (the target age for colorectal cancer screening)
2. Male Hispanics age 50 and older, and
3. Female and male Hispanics age 3-49 will be conducted.

Content analyses of transcribed qualitative data will identify which segments of the population should be intervention priorities, and the issues and barriers associated with colon cancer screening as identified by the community. 

The results from the study can be used to design a feasible intervention to be implemented by this community based on their needs, priorities, and assets as identified in the research.

Partners include:

• Nevada Colon Cancer Partnership
• Nevada Cancer Institute
• UC Davis Health System