A new communication approach to encourage lung cancer screening action in rural eligible populations

The purpose of this study was to develop an effective communication approach to encourage lung cancer screening action within rural screening-eligible populations.

An iterative research approach using targeted engagement with the priority population was used. Findings were triangulated through multiple methods, including two surveys and concept testing interviews. The Health Belief Model and the Extended Parallel Process Model served as study frameworks.

Initial findings suggest that threat levels are high in the priority population and an emphasis on barrier mitigation messaging may drive action. Health campaign posters integrating these findings were developed and tested with the priority population. The new health campaign posters were tested against examples of previously used health campaign posters. Findings suggest that the new health campaign posters were more effective in spurring lung cancer screening motivation and intention to act in the priority population compared to current health campaign poster examples.

Messaging focused on gain-framing, inoculation messaging, and barrier mitigation may be more effective in encouraging lung cancer screening action in rural eligible populations.

This project outlines a systematic process to developing effective, targeted communication approaches using behavior change and persuasive communication frameworks along with engagement from priority populations.