Evaluation of a Colorectal Cancer Education Training Program
Summary
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of trained community engagement specialists for improving communication on colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention and genetic testing among Hispanic/Latino/a/x (H/L) communities. CRC is the second and third leading cause of cancer deaths among United States (US) H/L men and women respectively. Knowledge of inherited germline mutations (changes in a gene that occurs in a sperm or egg cell) is critical for understanding cause of disease and can impact patient treatment options and outcomes. Educational programs and participant engagement approaches focused on H/L individuals considering Latino cultural values, literacy, numeracy, barriers faced, cultural beliefs and attitudes, as well as language of participants are much needed to address these observed disparities. The Community Genetic Navigation Specialists (CoGENES) Program focuses on increasing knowledge, and preparing the CoGENES trainees to help respond to questions, fears, and concerns regarding genetic testing, counseling, biospecimen (sample of urine, blood, or tissue cells) donation and participation in clinical trials to H/L community members, patients and their families. CoGENES may improve communication on colorectal cancer prevention and genetic testing which can help reduce cancer disparities among H/L communities.
Detailed description
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: I. To develop a local workforce of trained community engagement specialists to act as liaison agents to improve communication on genetic research, clinical genetic testing, and counseling to Hispanic/Latino/a/x (H/L) individuals. OUTLINE: Participants are randomized to 1 of 2 groups. GROUP 1: Participants receive a packet of existing information materials about colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and genetic testing to review at their own pace over 6-10 weeks. Participants may optionally receive a CoGENES training session within 2 weeks post-intervention. GROUP 2: Participants receive a CoGENES training session over 45-60 minutes. After completion of study intervention, participants are followed up at 8 weeks, 6 months and 12 months.
Arms & interventions
- OtherBest Practice
Receive a packet of existing information materials about colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and genetic testing
- OtherHealth Promotion and Education
Receive CoGENES training
- OtherSurvey Administration
Ancillary studies
Outcome measures
Primary
Change in knowledge about colorectal cancer prevention
We will use the WCRF/AICR score, which is a standardized scoring system, typically ranging from 0 to 7 points, that measures an individual's adherence to the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) recommendations for cancer prevention. A higher score indicates greater compliance with lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in physical activity, eating a diet rich in plant-based foods, and limiting alcohol, fast food, and sugary drinks. We will compare pre- and post-intervention to assess knowledge.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 months
Change in knowledge about genetic testing
Will use the Genetic Literacy and Comprehension (GLAC) measure to assess participant knowledge with eight commonly used genetic terms and concepts (genetic, chromosome, susceptibility, mutation, variation, abnormality, heredity, and sporadic) using a 7-point scale of 1 "Strongly Disagree" to 7 "Strongly Agree". We will compare pre- and post- surveys to assess knowledge.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 months
Change in knowledge about tumor testing
Will assess participants knowledge about tumor testing as determined by scores obtained from validated surveys. Will compare pre- and post- surveys to assess knowledge. Higher scores mean better knowledge.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 months
Change in knowledge about genetic counseling
There are 14 items in the questionnaire of Cancer Genetic Knowledge Scale. The total score ranges between 14 and 70. Higher scores indicate more/better knowledge. The questionnaire will be administered at pre- and post-genetic education.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 months
Changes in dietary and lifestyle patterns
Measured by scores obtained from surveys developed for this study. Will compare pre- and post- surveys to evaluate changes. Higher scores mean positive changes.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 months
Intention to pursue colorectal cancer screening
Will be assessed using one question with a 5-point response option (1 = Very Unlikely, 2 = Somewhat Unlikely, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Somewhat Likely, 5 = Very Likely).
Time frame: Up to 12 months
Intention to inquire about cancer history among family members
Will be assessed using one question with a 5-point response option (1 = Very Unlikely, 2 = Somewhat Unlikely, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Somewhat Likely, 5 = Very Likely).
Time frame: Up to 12 months
Intention to ask healthcare provider about genetic testing and counseling
Will be assessed using one question with a 5-point response option (1 = Very Unlikely, 2 = Somewhat Unlikely, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Somewhat Likely, 5 = Very Likely).
Time frame: Up to 12 months
Eligibility criteria
Study locations (1)
USC / Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
Los Angeles, California, 90033