Oncology patients' and their significant others' responses to a proposed cancer prevention/detection program

We used a needs assessment questionnaire to survey a primarily adult oncology population and their significant others, to gauge their interest in a cancer screening program. The purpose of the study was to determine the feasibility of developing a cancer prevention and detection program for this group of individuals. Although there was overwhelming interest in participating in the program, the subjects held varied opinions about the program's benefits. Differences correlated with personal and familial history of cancer and, in some categories, were quite significant. Additional questionnaire information related to patients' preference in the design of a cancer screening program. The majority preferred the screening examination to be performed by both nurses and physicians. In selecting what should be included in examinations, those surveyed chose testicular cancer and prostate cancer the least number of times. Results of this questionnaire can be used to demonstrate the need for nurses to take an active role in the screening process, especially in patient education.