“Caribbean Cancer Awareness Resources Education and Services (CARES)”

Jyotsna Changrani, M.D., M.P.H. (completed June 30, 2002)

This study researched the development of effective, culturally sensitive cancer information Web sites for immigrants. It explored strategies to improve the penetration and effectiveness of cancer communication, based on how immigrants search for and use, cancer information on the Internet.

The study focused on English-speaking Caribbean immigrant women in NYC, and on breast and cervical cancer. The study compiled currently available English cancer information sites, collected culturally appropriate health education materials on breast and cervical cancer developed for English-speaking Caribbean immigrant women, and reviewed the literature on health beliefs of Caribbean women. Caribbean born, English-speaking women above the age of 18 were recruited to participate in Web site review sessions. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to elicit information on cultural influences in accessing information on the Internet, and to inform the Web site design and content.

Conclusion: The Internet can be an effective vehicle for reaching out to traditionally hard-to-reach populations. A significant number of women in this study had regular access to the Internet, despite a mean age of 38. However, there are several barriers to effective utilization of the Internet. Recognizing cultural and social norms, as well as understanding the technical challenges in immigrants’ Internet use, is critical in developing websites geared to immigrant communities.

The results of this study have been presented at the Cancer Summit, and at the NYU Cancer Institute, and a manuscript has been prepared for publication.

The junior minority researcher for this study was Dr. Jyotsna Changrani, who is currently doing further research in cancer control in immigrant minority populations.