Equity in Cancer and Chronic Disease Prevention through a Multi-Pronged Network Intervention: Works-in-Progress

Abstract

The increasing rates of cancer incidence are disproportionately borne by populations that are ineligible for screening and historically marginalized populations. To address this need, our community-centered model seeks to catalyze the widespread diffusion of evidence-based information and resources (e.g., community-based organizations, federally qualified health centers) to reduce the risks of cancer, chronic disease, and other conditions. In this study, we tested whether improving personal health literacy (i.e., confidence in seeking information) and enabling successful information transfer (i.e., intention to share the specific information learned through the program) among community residents could contribute to greater diffusion intention (i.e., number of network members with whom residents plan to share information and resources). The current study used post-intervention surveys, which were administered to Chicago residents who were 18 years or older and had participated in the program. Among the 1499 diverse Chicago residents, improved personal health literacy was associated with greater diffusion intention (ORs = 2.00–2.68, 95% CI [1.27–4.39], p ≤ 0.003). Successful information transfer was associated with greater diffusion, especially for cancer and other chronic disease risk reductions (ORs = 3.43–3.73, 95% CI [1.95–6.68], p < 0.001). The findings highlight the potential gains for health equity through sustainable, scalable, multi-sectoral partnerships.