Bonnie J. Baty|Anita Y. Kinney|Sara Marie Ellis
Developing culturally sensitive cancer genetics communication aids for African Americans
University of Utah|University of Utah|Huntsman Cancer Institute|University of Utah
goal project develop educational materials communicate genetic health information culturally sensitive manner materials designed communicate information cancer risk genetic testing options health management options african american kindred known brca1 mutation educational materials pilottested four african american focus groups varying socioeconomic status gender audiotaped focus groups consisted presentation educational materials followed feedback session led african american facilitator qualitative analysis focus group transcripts identified important themes educational materials revised response participants suggestions products included booklet flip chart use educational sessions focus group participants recommended substantial reduction technical detail recommended information personalized made relevant lives target population critical themes included importance building trust medical system avoiding words images strong negative associations african american community strategies successful included nontechnical images explain genetic concepts clip art images energize personalize word slides vibrant color identifiably african american figures development themes relevant many african americans use materials ongoing study offering brca1 counseling testing large rural louisianabased kindred provide additional feedback effectiveness culturally tailored genetic education counseling materials