7) Community Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs
     Rene Shell, Deborah Geary, Koyamangalath Krishnan and Bruce Behringer, ETSU
      Sue Cantrell, Virginia Dept. of Health
     Gilbert Friedell, UK

     SUMMARY
     Nine rural community groups in three states met in multiple sessions to identify common community knowledge about steps in the continuum of cancer care. Trained facilitators and recorders identified key belief statements among communities about cancer and cancer care. Findings confirmed some confused and inaccurate knowledge about cancer risks, diagnosis and current treatment options. Researchers identified that poor communication exists between health providers and patients as well as rural communities and health care systems. Health professionals were found to be last on a list of sources of information about cancer and cancer care. Previously identified common beliefs about cancer as a fatal illness and perceived issues in screening and treatment were reconfirmed.

     FINDINGS
     7.1   Knowledge of cancer risks, risk reduction strategies, and screening was low; and, inaccurate and confused cancer knowledge was evident.
     7.2   Knowledge of cancer and cancer screening is low and, confused and inaccurate beliefs are high among rural Appalachians.
     7.3   Among the study population, cancer was perceived as a fatal illness.
     7.4   Multiple barriers to recommended cancer screening were reported.
     7.5   Data suggest a need for improved cancer communication and education in rural Appalachia.
     7.6   Interventions to remove barriers to cancer screening and increase the role of primary care providers in cancer education and screening are needed to achieve quality cancer control in rural Appalachia.

Community Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs (PDF File)

Community Focus Groups (PDF File)

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