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

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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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Author information

Author notes

  1. Robin C. Vanderpool DRPH, CHES

    Present address: Mid South Cancer Information Service, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Control Program, 2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A230, 40504, Lexington, KY, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Coastal Region Cancer Information Service, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, USA

    Julie Kornfeld MPH

  2. Health Communication and Informatics Research Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, USA

    Lila Finney Rutten PHD, MPH

  3. The Cancer Information Service, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, USA

    Linda Squiers PHD

Authors
  1. Robin C. Vanderpool DRPH, CHES
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  2. Julie Kornfeld MPH
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  3. Lila Finney Rutten PHD, MPH
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  4. Linda Squiers PHD
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Robin C. Vanderpool DRPH, CHES.

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Vanderpool, R.C., Kornfeld, J., Rutten, L.F. et al. Cancer information-seeking experiences: The implications of Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish language. J Canc Educ 24, 141–147 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1080/08858190902854772

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