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. 2009;24(2):141-7.
doi: 10.1080/08858190902854772.

Cancer information-seeking experiences: the implications of Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish language

Robin C Vanderpool  1 , Julie Kornfeld, Lila Finney Rutten, Linda Squiers
Affiliations

Cancer information-seeking experiences: the implications of Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish language

Robin C Vanderpool et al. J Cancer Educ. 2009.

Abstract

Background: Strategies to support cancer information-seeking among Hispanics are needed.

Methods: We analyzed data from the 2005 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) to explore cancer information-seeking experiences among respondents according to ethnicity and language of interview.

Results: Over 80% of Spanish-speaking Hispanics had never looked for cancer information. Compared to English-speaking respondents, Spanish-speaking Hispanics who sought cancer information indicated their search took a lot of effort (67%), was hard to understand (54%), and frustrating (42%). Spanish-speaking Hispanics noted minimal confidence in obtaining cancer information.

Conclusions: Language and cultural differences must be considered in the design, implementation, and dissemination of cancer information.

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