Cancer information-seeking experiences: The implications of Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish language

Background. Strategies to support cancer information-seeking among Hispanics are needed. Methods. We analyzed data from the 2005 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) to explore cancer information-seeking experiences among respondents according to ethnicity and language of interview. Results. Over 80% of Spanish-speaking Hispanics had never looked for cancer information. Compared to English-speaking respondents, Spanish-speaking Hispanics who sought cancer information indicated their search took a lot of effort (67%), was hard to understand (54%), and frustrating (42%). Spanish-speaking Hispanics noted minimal confidence in obtaining cancer information. Conclusions. Language and cultural differences must be considered in the design, implementation, and dissemination of cancer information.

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