Predictors of older adults' participation in fecal occult blood screening

This study describes variables that predicted participation in fecal occult blood screening. Orem's theory provides the conceptual basis for this descriptive research study. As part of the research, the American Cancer Society's (ACS) colorectal cancer educational program was given to 171 participants of a congregate meal program. Forty-seven percent of the respondents submitted specimens for occult blood testing. Female gender was the only demographic variable found to predict participation in the fecal occult blood screening. The ability to use the telephone, shop for groceries or clothes, and clean house were associated with submission of a fecal specimen. Respondents who assessed their eyesight and hearing as good did not differ from other respondents in regard to submitting fecal specimens. Implications for health education, early detection, and oncology and gerontological nursing are identified.