Protocol for a cluster randomized trial to evaluate a faith-based breast cancer screening navigation model

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Breast cancer incidence is rising among Korean American women, with higher rates of advanced-stage diagnosis compared to other Asian ethnic groups.
• Low adherence to breast cancer screening is a significant factor contributing to these disparities.
• Church settings present a unique opportunity to reach this demographic, as most Korean American women over 50 regularly attend services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the culturally tailored "Faith in Action!" intervention.
• To increase breast cancer screening adherence rates among Korean American women.
• To address health disparities in cancer screening within this population.

Main Methods:

• A parallel cluster randomized trial with staggered roll-out involving 24 Korean churches in Los Angeles.
• The "Faith in Action!" intervention utilizes a church-based small group education and lay health navigator program.
• Participants (women aged 45-75) were randomized to either the intervention or a waitlist control group, with adherence to screening guidelines as the primary outcome.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome is adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines within 6 months post-intervention.
• Secondary outcomes include adherence within 1 year and knowledge of breast cancer screening.
• Full results are pending trial completion.

Conclusions:

• Culturally tailored interventions are crucial for increasing breast cancer screening adherence in Korean American women.
• Faith-based organizations and lay health navigators offer a potentially scalable and sustainable strategy.
• This approach may improve health outcomes and reduce cancer-related disparities in this population.