Perspectives on Colorectal Cancer Screening in A Multiethnic Population in Kuala Lumpur using the Health Belief Model: A Qualitative Study
Keywords:
Colorectal cancer, screening, decision aid, qualitative, Health Belief ModelAbstract
Introduction:
Colorectal cancer (CRC) carries a significant burden in most world regions. However, its screening uptake remains low. This study explored awareness and perspectives on CRC screening programs in a multiethnic population and their preference for CRC screening decision aid.
Methodology:
In-depth interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. All interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, translated to English and analysed thematically using hybrid inductive and deductive approaches. Seventeen informants from three main ethnic groups (Malay, Chinese, and Indian) with various levels of risk for developing CRC were recruited.
Results:
Awareness on CRC screening program was found to be low. Majority of informants never heard of CRC screening program. Among 11 eligible informants, only five experienced CRC screening uptake. Thematic analysis of the transcripts yielded six major themes; knowledge of CRC, screening process, authority’s role, curability, willingness to screening and preference for decision aid, and they were mapped onto the Health Belief Model. Specific multiethnic perspectives found included preference for traditional medicine coming from all ethnics, and reliance on God coming from Malay informants. Majority preferred short videos as CRC screening decision aid, such as animation and live-action screenplay.
Conclusion:
Exploration of perspective of CRC screening helps in producing impactful decision aids. Future efforts should focus on developing short videos that incorporate population’s perspectives and can be disseminated through electronic media.
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