Interactive CD-ROM on Cancer Genetics for Hispanics

This project will build upon prior, successful research on the effectiveness of an interactive computer disk with readable only memory (CD-ROM) for educating women about breast cancer and genetic risk. Prior studies found that an interactive CD-ROM for educating women about breast cancer risk and genetic testing was effective. The program was well received by lay persons and professionals. In a randomized controlled trial conducted at multiple sites, the CD-ROM intervention was highly effective in increasing knowledge, especially among women at low risk of carrying a breast cancer susceptibility gene 1/2 (BRCA1/2) mutation.

Researchers now propose to expand the use of the interactive CD-ROM in two innovative ways. The overall goal of this proposal is to evaluate the program as a first-line educational approach for Hispanic women on the Texas-Mexico border, where educational resources about cancer genetics are limited. First, researchers will modify and adapt the program for a primarily Hispanic population, in order to make it culturally and linguistically appropriate to the needs of that audience.

Second, researchers will evaluate the program as a first-line educational method among women with a personal or family history of breast cancer. Researchers will compare the effectiveness of the CD-ROM when implemented with and without the guidance of a trained promotora, and in comparison with standard educational materials (usual care condition).

The specific aims of this study include:

Aim 1: To modify the interactive CD-ROM to: a) make it culturally and linguistically appropriate for Hispanic women residing along the Texas-Mexico border; b) reflect current knowledge about breast cancer genetics; c) add a module to help women prepare to discuss their family history and cancer risk with a health care provider (n=50 participants).

Aim 2: To conduct a randomized, controlled evaluation that compares the efficacy of the modified CD-ROM when used alone vs. when used with a promotora-assisted approach vs. standard written materials (n=414 participants).