Employing the church as a marketer of cancer prevention: a look at a health promotion project aimed to reduce colorectal cancer among African Americans in the Midwest

Fam Community Health. 2013 Jul-Sep;36(3):215-23. doi: 10.1097/FCH.0b013e31829159ed.

Abstract

Health promotion programs designed to address colorectal cancer disparities among African Americans are increasing. Unfortunately, this group still shoulders a disproportionate mortality burden in the United States; these numbers are also reflective of colorectal cancer (CRC) disparities in the Midwest. The purpose of this study was to extrapolate results from in-depth interviews and brief surveys on the effectiveness of the church as a social marketer of CRC-prevention messages. Results show that pastors believe the congregation has limited knowledge about CRC risk and prevention; they also believe the church can improve cancer-prevention communication among members and those affiliated with the church.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Black or African American* / education
  • Black or African American* / psychology
  • Christianity*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / prevention & control*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Health Status Disparities
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Pamphlets
  • Pilot Projects
  • Social Marketing*
  • United States