Effects of integrated risk counseling for cancer and cardiovascular disease in African Americans
Chanita Hughes Halbert, Scarlett Bellamy, Marjorie Bowman, Vanessa Briggs, Ernestine Delmoor, Joseph Purnell, Rodney Rogers, Benita Weathers, Shiriki Kumanyika, Chanita Hughes Halbert, Scarlett Bellamy, Marjorie Bowman, Vanessa Briggs, Ernestine Delmoor, Joseph Purnell, Rodney Rogers, Benita Weathers, Shiriki Kumanyika
Abstract
Objective: We evaluated a risk counseling intervention designed to enhance understanding about risk factors for cancer and cardiovascular disease, to improve self-efficacy for diet and physical activity, and to increase intentions to eat healthier and be physically active.
Methods: We conducted a quasi-experimental study developed by academic investigators and community stakeholders to evaluate the effects of integrated risk counseling in a community-based sample of African American adults (n = 101). The intervention provided education about the overlap in risk factors for cancer and cardiovascular disease and included components from motivational interviewing.
Results: Changes in behavioral intentions were not statistically significant (p > .05). Participants reported significantly greater levels of self-efficacy for diet (t = 2.25, p = .03) and physical activity (t = 2.55, p = .01), and significantly increased perceived risks of developing colon cancer (chi2 = 3.86, p = .05) and having a heart attack (chi2 = 4.50, p = .03).
Conclusions: Integrated risk counseling may have some benefits among African Americans.
Source: PubMed