Current Knowledge and Perceptions of Cancer Held by African American Seniors in the District of Columbia

Background: Cancer is a disease that is perceived negatively, especially in the African American community. Cultural attitudes, beliefs, and the lack of relevant health information all play a role in the extent of the negative perceptions of this multifaceted disease. Purpose: To conduct a qualitative assessment of the perceptions of cancer of African American senior citizens in the District of Columbia. Methods: Following a literature review on the knowledge and perceptions of cancer held by African Americans over 55 years of age living in Washington, DC, 4 focus groups were conducted, one from each of the 4 quadrants of the city, to determine the participants' (1) basic knowledge of cancer; (2) source(s) of cancer information; (3) beliefs and perceptions about cancer; and (4) suggestions of motivating activities that are likely to induce healthier lifestyles. Results and Conclusion: Results indicated that the majority of the participants perceived that cancer always produces a negative outcome. Many identified that their sources of cancer information came from family and friends; others indicated that information was acquired from physicians, health-related reading materials, or other media streamed devices (Internet, television, etc.). Based on the data gathered, the intervention most likely to promote changes in lifestyles would be a featured activity that provided knowledge on cancer with recommended lifestyle changes and constant reinforcements (e.g., calendars, a support partner). Translation to Health Education Practice: Participants in each of the focus groups requested that the healthy living featured activity and a subsequent intervention involving proper health care practices take place at the same sites where the focus groups were held.