Needs analysis of a cancer education program in south western Sydney

Before establishing a cancer education program in South Western Sydney (SWS), a study was conducted to investigate the level of interest and presentation format preferred by patients with cancer and their relatives/friends regarding five types of cancer-related information: medical, psychological, and physical care issues as well as support services and available resources. A questionnaire using a Likert scale and open- and close-ended questions was distributed to the local cancer population and their families comprising a total sample size of 141. The results showed a uniformly high level of interest in learning about all five cancer-related topics with a preferred program format that consisted of a mixed media presentation of 1 to 6 weeks duration, consisting of 1- to 2-hour weekly sessions. A cancer education program based on the needs assessment findings was developed and implemented at Liverpool Hospital, which was positively evaluated by participants.