Digital Storytelling Interventions to Promote Cancer Screening Among Hispanic/Latino Adults in Primary Care Settings

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Hispanic/Latino individuals, yet many do not complete cancer screenings due to systemic barriers. To address this issue, Rochester Healthy Community Partnership (RHCP) created "Stories for Change: La detección temprana puede salvar vidas" (S4C-cancer prevention). This digital storytelling intervention involved eight Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors or co-survivors who shared their experiences by creating 2-min videos. Their heartfelt stories aim to help patients make informed decisions about cancer screenings. RHCP piloted S4C-cancer prevention at three clinical sites to assess intervention acceptability and success (cancer screenings completed). A total of 51 participants who were overdue for cancer screenings were recruited (breast = 13; cervical = 12; colorectal women = 14; colorectal men = 12). After viewing the intervention, 100% intended to be screened in the future. Within 7 months, 45% of participants completed their recommended cancer screenings. Among those who were screened, 89% stated that their decision was "very much" influenced by S4C-cancer prevention. Participants who did not complete screening cited barriers such as time, lack of access to health education, and fear. Those who had previously screened for the targeted cancer were more likely to complete screening after viewing S4C-cancer prevention. Additionally, participants suggested enhancing the videos by including more education on various cancer topics. We found high acceptability of S4C-cancer prevention. Despite all participants intending to get screened, half completed screening within 7 months of viewing the intervention.