Compliance with fecal occult blood test screening among low-income medical outpatients: a randomized controlled trial using a videotaped intervention.

BACKGROUND

Morbidity and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC) are heightened among the socioeconomically disadvantaged.

METHOD: A randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a videotaped intervention using peer educators as well as a health professional to increase compliance with fecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening. Participants were 160 older individuals attending a medical outpatient clinic. Compliance with FOBT use was the dependent measure. Demographic variables, family history of CRC, viewing the videotape, perceived risk, self-efficacy, physician recommendation, knowledge about CRC screening, and intent to use the FOBT were independent measures.

RESULTS

Approximately 41% of participants complied with FOBT screening. Significant relationships were found between intent and family history of CRC, viewing the video, perceived risk, self-efficacy, and CRC knowledge. However, none of these variables was significantly related to compliance with FOBT use.

CONCLUSIONS

Although modest compliance rates were shown for both experimental and control groups, their compliance did not differ significantly. Further investigation of the impact of a video as part of an enhanced intervention program should be considered.