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Cancer Information Service utilization by selected U.S. ethnic groups
J A Ward1, D M Anderson, C G Pundik
1University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030.
Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Monographs
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Racial and ethnic minorities underutilize the Cancer Information Service (CIS). They use CIS for cancer prevention more than treatment, with longer calls. Television effectively increases CIS use across all groups.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Communication
- Cancer Control
Background:
- The Cancer Information Service (CIS) has provided cancer information to over 5 million individuals since 1976.
- Program coverage and utilization patterns among high-risk populations are of significant interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the utilization of the CIS by different racial and ethnic groups between 1983 and 1990.
- To identify disparities in access and information-seeking behaviors related to cancer information.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of CIS call data from 1983-1990, focusing on demographic patterns.
- Data analysis was constrained by limitations in demographic data collection.
Main Results:
- Confirmed underutilization of CIS by racial and ethnic minorities.
- Minority callers used CIS more for cancer prevention than treatment information.
- Calls from minority audiences tended to be longer than those from White audiences.
- Television emerged as the most effective medium for stimulating CIS use across all demographics.
Conclusions:
- Expanding program outreach is crucial for reaching underserved, high-risk audiences.
- A more robust data collection strategy is needed to accurately assess utilization patterns.
- Utilizing program funds to purchase regular television airtime can effectively stimulate CIS use among high-risk and general populations.