A Motivational Interviewing Intervention to Promote CRC Screening: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Appalachian Kentuckians face higher colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality.
• CRC screening rates are lower in this population (35%) compared to the rest of Kentucky (47%).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a motivational interviewing intervention delivered by Lay Health Advisors (LHAs) on increasing CRC screening.
• To identify factors influencing CRC screening uptake in an emergency department (ED) population.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted with participants recruited from an ED.
• Participants received either a motivational interviewing intervention from LHAs or were in the control group.
• Surveys were administered at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, with statistical analyses including t tests, chi-squared, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in CRC screening rates was observed between the intervention and control groups at 3 or 6 months.
• The intervention group showed a significant increase in perceived susceptibility to CRC compared to the control group.
• Older age and financial inadequacy were associated with increased barriers to CRC screening.

Conclusions:

• This pilot study highlights factors influencing CRC screening in transient ED populations.
• Motivational interviewing may impact perceived risk, but not immediate screening uptake in this setting.
• Findings can inform future interventions utilizing motivational interviewing in EDs.