Using low-tech interventions, such as an interactive DVD and patient navigation services delivered by phone, can significantly increase the odds of obtaining cancer screenings among rural women, according to a study. The study recruited almost a thousand women from rural Indiana and Ohio who were not up-to-date with the recommended screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. The results demonstrate that the intervention is cost-effective, remotely delivered, and has the potential to help catch cancer earlier, resulting in better outcomes.
Cancer screening can help in early detection and treatment of cancer. However, women living in rural areas are less likely to obtain cancer screenings as compared to urban women. The article discusses a study that demonstrates the effectiveness of low-tech interventions in increasing the odds of obtaining cancer screenings among rural women.
Study Methodology: The study recruited almost a thousand women from rural areas of Indiana and Ohio who were not up-to-date with the recommended screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. The participants were divided into three groups. The first group received an interactive DVD, which provided information about barriers to screenings, scheduling and completing appointments, and tailored messages specific to the user’s age and family history. The second group received the DVD and patient navigation services, while the third group received the usual care.
Results: The study found that the DVD group had almost twice the odds of receiving all necessary screenings compared to the usual care group. However, the odds were almost six times greater for the DVD and patient navigation group than the usual care group. The DVD alone was not significantly more effective than usual care, but the DVD and patient navigation was.
The researchers concluded that the intervention designed to increase adherence to all or any of the three cancer screening tests was more effective than usual care. The intervention was also available at relatively modest costs and delivered remotely, demonstrating great potential for implementing an evidence-based intervention in remote areas of the midwestern US.
Implications: The study’s findings have significant implications for women living in rural areas. Low-tech interventions can help increase the odds of obtaining cancer screenings, which can catch cancer earlier and result in better outcomes. The DVD and patient navigation services could be a cost-effective way to ensure rural women access these screenings.
Limitations: The study group was largely white and almost half had a college education, so the results may not translate to other groups. Although the DVD was completely narrated, the study found that it could still pose a problem going forward as the technology is rapidly becoming obsolete. The researchers suggest translating the intervention into an online tool that can be accessed via a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
