Making Communities Healthier: Cancer Control in Rural Appalachia
Author Information
Author(s): Behringer Bruce, Mabe Karen Harrell, Dorgan Kelly A., Hutson Sadie P.
Primary Institution: East Tennessee State University
Hypothesis
Underserved communities with high cancer rates often are not involved in implementing state cancer control activities locally.
Conclusion
The Appalachian Community Cancer Research Review Work Groups show that involving communities in cancer control can lead to better local implementation of state cancer plans.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants learned to interpret cancer research findings from a community perspective.
- Community leaders were engaged in discussions about cancer disparities.
- Work group participants designed and implemented local cancer education activities.
Takeaway
This study shows that when communities work together to understand cancer, they can help each other and make better health choices.
Methodology
The study used community-based participatory research to form work groups that discussed cancer data and developed local education activities.
Potential Biases
The study may have biases due to the selection of community leaders rather than a random sample of the population.
Limitations
Some participants could not fully participate due to illness and work demands.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 14 from Tennessee and 10 from Virginia, aged 30 to 65, with diverse professional backgrounds and ethnicities.
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