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Health literacy and colorectal cancer knowledge and awareness among African-American males

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the USA; however, the American Cancer Society estimates that as many as half of these deaths could be eliminated with annual CRC screenings. African-American males are less likely to participate in CRC screening when compared to white males. Despite the evidence that adult and health literacies are important variables in understanding racial/ethnic differences in health status and health-related knowledge of diseases, few studies have examined the impact of health literacy on knowledge and awareness of CRC among minorities. In April 2006, the Urban Health and Wellness Center at the University of Michigan-Flint collaborated with a faith-based organization to implement a study aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness of CRC among African-American males. Researchers conducted a series of health education workshops on CRC, assessed the health literacy of participants, and examined the correlation between health literacy and self-reported knowledge and awareness of CRC. The sample comprised 142 African-American males 50 years of age and older. Nearly all participants (91.2%) had at least a high school education; 64.7% were married; 88.6% had health insurance, and 30% were employed. An average of 72% of participants correctly answered questions regarding CRC. Nearly 70% of participants reported never having been screened for CRC. A significant number of respondents indicated difficulties understanding hospital signs and medical instructions, as well as a lack of confidence in correctly completing medical forms. Health literacy showed a positive correlation with self-reported knowledge and awareness of CRC knowledge and awareness.