19)Community Cancer Research Review Work Groups
     Kelly Dorgan, ETSU Department of Communication

     SUMMARY
     Communities hold the key to disseminating believable information using effective methods and credible senders. Work groups were established in Tennessee and Virginia of non-health professional community members with strong social networks. The work groups were presented Program findings and asked to discuss them, analyze then from a layperson’s viewpoint, and disseminate within their communities. Qualitative findings about the dissemination process, contents and reactions are profiled to assist in learning about dissemination issues.

     FINDINGS
     19.1   Three themes emerged from the data regarding what makes the cancer experience different in Appalachia
                  a. cancer stories
                  b. cultural factors
                  c. healthcare access
     19.2   Cancer stories told by participants were mostly negative and stretched the span of the cancer continuum.
     19.3   Community based groups viewed as helpful to cancer communication.
     19.4   The family system seemed to impact individual’s decisions at every stage of the cancer continuum.
     19.5   Fatalism toward the healthcare system was identified by participants as an influential factor in cancer care for their community.
     19.6   Participation in the Work Group led to individuals using their personal, family and professional social networks to disseminate cancer control messages in rural Appalachian communities.
     19.7   Participation in Work Groups led to direct knowledge about and involvement in state cancer control plans.

Community Research Review Workgroups (PDF File)

Session 5 Final (PDF File)

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