Utility of Pamphlets in Promoting Knowledge and Positive Attitudes about Two Early Cancer Detection Procedures.

Informational pamphlets about breast self-examination (BSE) and testicular self-examination (TSE) are widely distributed in health care settings, but the pamphlets' effectiveness in promoting knowledge and positive attitudes about these early cancer detection procedures is largely unknown. A study compared pamphlets with alternative methods of information delivery about BSE and TSE. Subjects were 219 females and 157 males enrolled in a health science course at a midwestern university. Female subjects were randomly assigned to BSE pamphlet, modeling, or modeling with guided practice groups. Male subjects were randomly assigned to TSE pamphlet group or to one of two alternative facilitator-conducted groups. Knowledge and attitudes about BSE and TSE were post-tested upon completion of the 60-minute programs. Groups did not differ with respect to knowledge about the respective early detection procedures, but more favorable responses in the facilitator-conducted programs did occur among groups in both BSE and TSE programs regarding selected attitudes. It was concluded that pamphlets may be the simplest, most cost-effective information delivery mode when knowledge gain is the sole educational program objective. However, attitudinal change may require that more person-oriented approaches be taken by health professionals in educational roles. (Author/JMK)