Effects of integrated risk counseling for cancer and cardiovascular disease in African Americans.

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.