Using Inside Knowledge Campaign Materials to Improve Gynecologic Cancer Knowledge in Underserved Women

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Gynecologic cancer affects 30,000 U.S. women annually, with higher rates in underserved and minority populations.
• Addressing cancer-related disparities is a critical public health objective.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase and assess awareness of gynecologic cancer risks, symptoms, screenings, and prevention in underserved women.
• To evaluate a collaboration between the CDC's Inside Knowledge campaign and a national network to reduce disparities.

Main Methods:

• Partnering CDC's national network with the Inside Knowledge campaign to deliver tailored educational sessions.
• Sessions targeted women served by the National Behavioral Health Network, Nuestras Voces, and SelfMade.
• Pre- and post-session questionnaires assessed changes in knowledge.

Main Results:

• Knowledge gains regarding risk factors, screening, and HPV vaccination varied across participating organizations.
• All educational sessions improved the correct identification of certain gynecologic cancer symptoms.
• Baseline knowledge levels differed among participants from various organizations.

Conclusions:

• Educational sessions effectively raised gynecologic cancer awareness among underserved women.
• Variations in information uptake highlight the need for organization-specific approaches.
• Additional targeted interventions are recommended to promote healthy behaviors and reduce cancer disparities.