Explaining the Correlates of the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change in Visual (Structural) Colorectal...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Behavior Change
• Cancer Prevention

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
• Despite declining rates in the US, disparities persist in CRC screening.
• Current CRC screening interventions often lack theory-based approaches, limiting effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of health behavior change to identify factors influencing visual CRC screening examinations.
• To address the deficit of theory-based strategies for promoting CRC screening.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study surveyed 640 US adults aged 45-75 using a 57-item questionnaire.
• The questionnaire assessed MTM constructs and visual CRC screening history.
• Hierarchical multiple regression analyzed the relationship between MTM constructs and screening behavior initiation/sustenance.

Main Results:

• 71.4% of participants reported undergoing visual CRC screening.
• Participatory dialogue, physical environment changes, age, healthcare provider recommendation, and prior colonoscopy experience significantly predicted screening initiation.
• These factors explained 22% of the variation in initiating visual CRC screening (R² = 0.222, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• The Multi-Theory Model (MTM) provides a valuable framework for developing interventions.
• Theory-based strategies can enhance the design of educational, informational, and clinical approaches to promote visual CRC screening.
• Targeting identified factors can improve CRC screening uptake and reduce disparities.