J Cancer Educ [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Med Students SOAR: A Model for Immersive Oncology Research Training for Early Medical Trainees.
Bolinas DKM, Bernardino MR, Barcena AJR … +5 more , Marco KPD, Lee HY, Chang S, Gunther JR, Melancon MP
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41748959 · Full text
Physician-scientists are critical to advancing evidence-based medicine and research, yet the number of trainees is declining. Limited programs for early research exposure contribute to this decreasing trend. Thus, the Me...
Physician-scientists are critical to advancing evidence-based medicine and research, yet the number of trainees is declining. Limited programs for early research exposure contribute to this decreasing trend. Thus, the Medical Students Summer in Oncology at Anderson Research (Med Students SOAR) program, funded by the National Cancer Institute, was developed to provide medical students with immersive experiences in clinical and research oncology. The program engaged 25 students for 8–10 weeks mentored by MD Anderson faculty, focusing on research skill development, clinical integration, and interprofessional collaboration. To evaluate the impact on students, pre- and post- program surveys were conducted using questions on a 5-point Likert scale where higher scores correspond to higher satisfaction. All scores were analyzed using statistical software. The students reported high satisfaction and meaningful impact, particularly faculty mentor interactions (87%, 20/23), mentor engagement frequency (87%, 20/23), and mentor communication (78%, 18/23). Furthermore, students (91–100%) reported that their mentors provided career guidance and professional networking. The students showed significant gains in career knowledge (4.1→4.4, p=.04), self-efficacy in research (3.8→4.3, p=.007), and science identity (3.9→4.2, p=.06). There was also a significantly higher career intention to pursue a research career (3.4→3.8, p=.013) and a significant decrease in the experience of imposter phenomenon (2.4→2.0, p=.007). After a one-year follow up survey of 15 respondents, all continued in research activities where they garnered fifteen journal publications (six first-author), eight conference proceedings, and numerous ongoing manuscripts. The Med Students SOAR program demonstrated that structured, mentored oncology research program enhanced medical students’ skills, career knowledge, and engagement in cancer research.
Bridging the Digital Divide Without Leaving Anyone Behind: Hybrid Models for Cancer Education.
Li X, Liu Z, Lv S … +1 more , Jiang J
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41748958 · Publisher ↗
Patient education in oncology is increasingly treated as a care component that supports symptom self-management, treatment navigation, and family coping across the cancer trajectory. Recent evidence syntheses indicate th...
Patient education in oncology is increasingly treated as a care component that supports symptom self-management, treatment navigation, and family coping across the cancer trajectory. Recent evidence syntheses indicate that educational strategies remain heterogeneous, with variable implementation and evaluation, particularly in low- and middle-income settings where resource constraints shape feasibility and reach. Reviews of digital health and telehealth in cancer care suggest that technology-enabled education can extend access and reinforce guidance between encounters, although limitations related to sustainability, comparative effectiveness, and inclusion of vulnerable groups persist. eHealth literacy among cancer populations is variable and is associated with demographic and social factors, which implies that comprehension and usability cannot be assumed when education is delivered primarily through digital channels. Data from Medicare-enrolled cancer survivors further highlight that technology access and related digital divides can influence the availability and use of telehealth-linked resources. Education that is designed to be actionable, inclusive, and continuous also supports shared decision-making by improving the alignment between evidence, patient values, and real-world trade-offs that patients and families face during treatment.
Trends in TikTok: Educational and Advocacy Content on Colon Cancer in Young Adults Highlights Healthcare Challenges.
Vij M, Gordon R, Heilbroner L … +5 more , Rangoussis K, Abu-Ghannam O, Zhang J, Deogaonkar A, Borum ML
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41735699 · Publisher ↗
TikTok has emerged as one of the most effective ways of sharing information among the younger generation. Colorectal cancer (CRC), in particular, has become a subject of interest amongst TikTok users with CRC being diagn...
TikTok has emerged as one of the most effective ways of sharing information among the younger generation. Colorectal cancer (CRC), in particular, has become a subject of interest amongst TikTok users with CRC being diagnosed at younger ages. There have been debates about TikTok’s legitimacy with concerns about the dissemination of misinformation. This study analyzed TikTok videos on CRC in young adults for content and reliability of information. This study utilized a cross-sectional content analysis of the 100 most-liked TikTok videos under the search term “colon cancer in younger people” to assess the nature and accuracy of colorectal cancer (CRC) information. Videos were categorized by content, emotional tone, and information type, with accuracy evaluated against verified medical sources. Misinformation was classified into three categories, and quality was assessed using the Global Quality Score. Statistical and thematic analyses were conducted to identify key discourse patterns. This study analyzed 100 TikTok videos on colorectal cancer (CRC) over the past five years, with viewership ranging from a few thousand to 10.8 million. Most creators were female (59%), and 57% were CRC patients. The average age of CRC patients discussed was 26 (range: 14–37). Content focused on CRC symptoms (63%), screening (51%), treatment (25%), and causes (21%). Advocacy was the dominant theme (68%), while fear (46%) and medical mistrust (21%) were also common. Chi-square analysis revealed patients were more likely to share personal narratives than Health Care Providers (HCPs) (X² = 58.8, p < 0.00001). Misinformation was found in 9 videos, with 19% from HCPs, 2% from patients, and 75% from social media influencers. A Z-test showed HCP videos were more likely to contain misinformation than patient videos (Z = 2.85, p = 0.00438). GQS analysis showed no significant differences in quality across creator groups (F(3, 96) = 0.43, p = 0.73). This study highlights the growing role of TikTok as a health communication tool, particularly among young adults at risk for early-onset colorectal cancer. The findings reveal that videos on TikTok often include both educational content and personal narratives about CRC, with a notable emphasis on prevention and the emotional impacts of fear and mistrust. Healthcare providers should engage in empathetic, accessible communication to address these emotional themes and combat misinformation. Institutions and healthcare professionals should consider leveraging social media to share accurate, evidence-based health information and consider integrating digital communication training into professional development.
Knowledge of High School Students About Cancers of the Genital System.
Saracen A, Kotwica Z
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41735698 · Publisher ↗
Cancers of the genital tract are one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in women in the fourth-fifth decade of life. The incidence of cancers of this system in men is also increasing, testicular cancer...
Cancers of the genital tract are one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in women in the fourth-fifth decade of life. The incidence of cancers of this system in men is also increasing, testicular cancer in the younger age groups, and prostate cancer in the fifth and subsequent decades of life. The purpose of this study was to analyse knowledge of college students about genital system cancer risk factors. The study included 3108 adolescents aged 15-19 years, students of the first and final grades of 20 high schools located in Mazovia (Poland). The participants were asked about their knowledge regarding cancer risk factors like genetics, stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, oral contraceptives, microorganisms and frequent changes of sexual partners. More than 50% of participants properly idenified risk factors, but more than half did not understand the difference between cancer of the reproductive system and cancer of other organs. It means, that knowledge of the risk factors is not sufficient. It turned out that the most important source of information for young people are teachers, followed by books, television, the internet and medical services. Family members proved to be insignificant as a source of information, with only 10% of respondents indicating them. It seems to be necessary to supplement school education programs with regularly repeated information on genital system cancers and the need for their early detection, which can play a huge role in keeping the population as healthy as possible.
Polypharmacy Drift after Cancer: When Survivorship Becomes a Repeat Prescription.
Jerjes W, Williams S
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41733865 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Acceptability and Preliminary Impact of a Cancer-Focused Communication and Community Engagement Training Program for Investigators.
Hayes EN, O'Dell NL, Holland N … +3 more , Hurtado-de-Mendoza A, Kamen C, Cartujano-Barrera F
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41701298 · Publisher ↗
The Wilmot Cancer Institute (Wilmot), an NCI-designated cancer center, developed a cancer-focused training program to enhance investigators' communication skills, as well as their knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes re...
The Wilmot Cancer Institute (Wilmot), an NCI-designated cancer center, developed a cancer-focused training program to enhance investigators' communication skills, as well as their knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding community engagement. The program was delivered in person over a single day, totaling 4.5 h. It consisted of four didactic sessions: (1) an overview of the Wilmot COE Office and its catchment area, (2) identifying the audience and tailoring messages accordingly, (3) developing communication products, and (4) the fundamentals of verbal communication and best practices for public speaking. Following these didactic sessions, a population scientist presented examples community-engaged research. Finally, investigators participated in a 60-minute practice session with community members. A total of 13 investigators (4 were basic scientists and 9 were population scientists) attended the training. Investigators completed pre- and post-training assessments. Investigators reported high satisfaction with the training and a strong willingness to recommend it. Comparisons of pre- and post-training responses showed increases for knowledge of the Wilmot COE Office and its catchment area, as well as their perceptions and attitudes toward community engagement in research. A cancer-focused training program designed to enhance investigators' communication skills, as well as their knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding community engagement, is acceptable and shows a promising preliminary impact. Additional research is needed to determine the long-term impact on actual community engagement and its contribution to informing cancer research and control efforts that are especially relevant to the population served.
Social Media Peer-Driven Communication on Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccine Among Female Youth in Nigeria.
Akerele OE, Olanrewaju AK
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41670944 · Publisher ↗
This study examined the relationship between social media peer communication and perception, knowledge, and attitude toward cervical cancer prevention among female youth aged 15 to 29 years in Kwara State, Nigeria. Ancho...
This study examined the relationship between social media peer communication and perception, knowledge, and attitude toward cervical cancer prevention among female youth aged 15 to 29 years in Kwara State, Nigeria. Anchored in the Health Belief Model, the study also investigated how youth engagement with posts on cervical cancer and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) influences their attitude about the vaccine. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 379 female youth selected through a multi-stage stratified sampling technique from two public universities. Findings revealed a significant positive association between social media peer communication and cues to action, knowledge and perceived susceptibility, but vaccine uptake remains low (27.2%) due to stigma rooted in social perception that associates cervical cancer and HPV vaccine with sexual activity. These findings reinforce that awareness and knowledge of the HPV vaccine alone are insufficient in driving uptake. Public health campaigns should integrate social media peerdriven communications and peer influencer models that extend awareness and knowledge building to address social perceptions and stigma in their campaign efforts. Also, strategic peer advocacy can significantly complement traditional health education, creating a space where youth can learn directly from immediate peers, connect with like-minded individuals, and influence one another's attitudes towards a positive perception of the disease and vaccine uptake. Also, campaign messages should model HPV vaccination as socially acceptable, responsible and safe.
Comment on "Analysis of Quality, Reliability, and Content of Cervical Cancer-Related Chinese Videos on TikTok".
Sun P, Fan Z, Li L
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41670943 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Development of an Electronic Learning Module for CAR-T Education in Canadian Hematology Residents.
Zhang G, Dong A, Lepic K … +2 more , Davies GA, Balitsky AK
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41663774 · Publisher ↗
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is a novel cancer treatment modality associated with unique treatment considerations and associated toxicities and therefore is administered at select hospitals. As a resu...
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is a novel cancer treatment modality associated with unique treatment considerations and associated toxicities and therefore is administered at select hospitals. As a result, hematology trainees have variable exposure to CAR-T management. The purpose of this study was to systematically develop a national electronic learning module (ELM) to facilitate CAR-T education among Canadian hematology trainees. First, a survey-based needs assessment was conducted. Participants indicated moderate to significant benefit from further education on CAR-T therapy. They also identified key content areas of educational need and key priorities for a CAR-T ELM. Based on this data, an ELM was developed using the Articulate 360 platform, with input from CAR-T content experts. Semi-structured focus groups were then conducted to pilot the draft ELM, and qualitative thematic analysis identified consistent themes in positive and negative feedback. The ELM was further iteratively revised based on this feedback, and the final ELM product has been made available online as an open-access resource. The results of this study demonstrate the successful development of a CAR-T e-learning resource to fulfill an educational gap for a novel cancer therapy. Future steps include quantitative evaluation of the educational efficacy of the ELM.
Colorectal Cancer in the American Indian and Alaska Native Community: A Holistic Review.
Monetathchi AR, Carson WO, Upshaw B … +5 more , Lester A, Cleary E, Little A, Cordova-Marks FM, Erdrich J
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41663773 · Full text
Despite a decline in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality for the general United States population, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations have seen an increase in both measures. AI/AN populations h...
Despite a decline in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality for the general United States population, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations have seen an increase in both measures. AI/AN populations have also experienced the largest increase in early-onset colorectal cancer, have the second highest CRC incidence rates, and the AN community has the highest rates of CRC worldwide. AI/AN populations face numerous barriers, including limited access to care and a shift in dietary preferences away from traditional foods, which may contribute to these findings. This review of the literature explored what types of CRC research have been conducted and found that 7.1% is on diet, 8.2% on age, 3.5% on geography, and 64.7% on screening. This review expands the focus beyond screening and highlights research focused on potential underlying causes of CRC in AI/AN communities. A more comprehensive and population-specific fund of knowledge on the totality of the subject is critical to directing more effective prevention, earlier detection, and management. Evaluating different components of CRC honors the holistic approach to health practiced by many AI/AN communities.
Assessment of Fellowship Didactic Curricula in Hematology/Oncology: Cross-Sectional Findings From the PODCAST-HOF Trial.
Mistry RH, Tawagi K, Hausrath DJ … +29 more , Armstrong SA, Abuali IA, Biswas AN, Valasapalli S, Pachika PS, Forster MK, Stoen E, Lee Y, Berardi GG, Berry JL, Nassar AM, Egert D, Miranda KW, Mendelson LS, Mian A, Kidwell KM, Fitzpatrick MC, Abdallah M, Melody M, Stempel JM, Chung V, Taasan SM, Cockrell DC, Taza F, Wilson NR, Itani AS, Danak SU, Bloom MD, Patel VG
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Feb · PMID 41644935 · Publisher ↗
Didactic lectures play an important role in hematology/oncology fellowship education. How each program structures their curricula is determined independently. To improve the trainee experience, identifying best practices...
Didactic lectures play an important role in hematology/oncology fellowship education. How each program structures their curricula is determined independently. To improve the trainee experience, identifying best practices is essential, but limited data about program structure exist. This marks the first cross-sectional analysis of hematology/oncology fellowship didactic curricula from a heterogenous group of programs to-date. Twenty-eight US Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited hematology/oncology fellowship programs were included. Local principal investigators completed a 21-question survey containing a series of multiple-choice and open-ended questions to understand participating programs’ educational curricula and structure. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics for multiple-choice questions and thematic analysis for open-ended questions. All participating programs completed the background assessment (100% response rate), representing a heterogenous group of academic and community programs across the continental US. There was a median of 3 days of lectures (range 1–5 days per week), with slideshow presentations as the primary mode of content delivery (100%). Disease-specific faculty delivered the majority of content for malignant hematology and oncology (n = 26, 93%) and classical hematology (n = 18, 64%) at most programs. Journal club was included in 24 programs (86%), however only four programs invited biostatisticians (17%) and only 8 programs (28%) included introductory biostatistics lectures. The majority of programs also encouraged supplemental resource use. These data suggest that there remains heterogeneity with regards to the structure of didactic curricula in hematology/oncology fellowship programs. Future efforts to evaluate how these variations impact fellow education should be undertaken to identify best practices.
Enhancing Oral Health Literacy to Prevent Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Awareness and Compliance Among Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Bone-Modifying Agents.
Kamel AHM, AlKindi F, AlHarrasi R … +2 more , Al-Sayegh H, AlKindi N
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41619114 · Publisher ↗
This cross-sectional study evaluated awareness, knowledge, and compliance with oral health recommendations among 528 breast cancer patients receiving bone-modifying agents (BMAs) at Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Car...
This cross-sectional study evaluated awareness, knowledge, and compliance with oral health recommendations among 528 breast cancer patients receiving bone-modifying agents (BMAs) at Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center (SQCCCRC) between July 2021 and March 2025. Data were collected using a structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire assessing sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, knowledge of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), adherence to oral health guidance, dental referral practices, and oral hygiene behaviours. Among 266 respondents, the cohort was predominantly female (97%), aged 41–60 years (60%). Overall, 56% of the participants reported awareness of MRONJ, 73% adhered to extraction avoidance, and 70% rated oral hygiene as highly important. Compliance was significantly higher among female patients, and those receiving their first BMA dose at SQCCCRC (84% vs. 69%, p = 0.009). Awareness of extraction avoidance was strongly associated with adherence (p = 0.002), whereas MRONJ awareness alone was not. Hospital records indicated that 86.5% of patients underwent baseline dental assessments before or during therapy. Oral hygiene practices were generally positive, although only 30% combined brushing with flossing, and a minority reported oral pain (11%) or infection (8.3%). The geographical location did not significantly affect awareness or compliance. These findings highlight the critical role of structured institutional education, baseline dental evaluation, and patient education in promoting adherence to preventive oral health measures. Integrating these interventions into oncology care pathways can enhance patient awareness, support preventive behaviours, and reduce the risk of MRONJ in breast cancer patients receiving BMA.
Integrating Cancer Education Into High School Curricula.
Ma J, Shin A, Iyengar R … +8 more , Nguyen I, Nguyen L, Feng E, Kohli K, Wang S, Feliciano EJG, Dee EC, Tawfiles D
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41606304 · Publisher ↗
Cancer is a leading cause of death and its incidence is rising among younger populations, yet formal cancer education is rarely included in U.S. high school curricula. Adolescence is a critical period for establishing li...
Cancer is a leading cause of death and its incidence is rising among younger populations, yet formal cancer education is rarely included in U.S. high school curricula. Adolescence is a critical period for establishing lifelong health behaviors, and emerging evidence suggests that school-based cancer education can improve knowledge, shift attitudes, and promote risk-reducing behaviors. In this narrative review, we summarize studies of high school and middle school cancer education programs, including curricula focused on cancer biology, modifiable risk factors (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, diet, physical activity, ultraviolet exposure), HPV vaccination, and symptom awareness. Across diverse settings, brief classroom interventions, interactive modules, and service-learning projects consistently increased cancer literacy, recognition of warning signs, and intentions to adopt preventive behaviors, with some reports of early behavior change. We further highlight the potential of cancer education to address health inequities by improving health literacy, reducing stigma, and fostering trust in the medical system, particularly in communities with limited access to care or who are at significant risk of financial toxicity. Finally, we outline pragmatic strategies for integrating cancer content into existing science, health, and social science courses; leveraging electives and clubs; and partnering with healthcare professionals and community organizations. Integrating cancer education into high school represents a feasible, equity-promoting strategy to reduce future cancer risk.
Outcomes from a STEM Education Program for Elementary School Students in Medically Underserved Areas and Populations.
Statman MR, Eisenstein EN, Brown M … +10 more , Sleiman MM, Riggins RB, Eyl J, Jones-Davis D, Manfred L, Stone D, Scharon CJ, Harrington L, Dash C, Tercyak KP
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41604137 · Full text
Early exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) can inspire children from medically underserved areas and populations (MUA/P) to pursue health and biomedical careers, helping reduce long-term c...
Early exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) can inspire children from medically underserved areas and populations (MUA/P) to pursue health and biomedical careers, helping reduce long-term cancer disparities. The Georgetown University Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and KID Museum co-developed the Young Scholars Program (YSP) to engage elementary students from Title I schools in the Washington, DC region, in hands-on learning about cancer biology and prevention through a maker education approach. This study evaluated the YSP's impact on students' inventive learning, sense of belonging in STEM, and STEM interest using mixed methods. During the 2024-2025 school year, N = 432 students from four Title I schools participated. Most identified as Black (35%) or Latine (53%), and 49% were female. Among program attendees, N = 306 completed exit tickets, N = 224 returned evaluation surveys, and N = 184 had exit tickets matched to surveys. Post-program, nearly all students reported practicing as a scientist (99%) or engineer (98%). Knowledge of cancer biology and prevention was high, with 88-96% answering key questions correctly. Students endorsed strong inventive learning (90%), belonging in STEM (92%), and STEM interest (81%). Among students with matched data, those who reported practicing as scientists or engineers showed significantly greater inventive learning (F = 16.19, p < 0.001), belonging (F = 9.65, p = 0.002), and STEM interest (F = 4.75, p = 0.03). Qualitative reflections (N = 284 responses) most frequently described initiative (48%), followed by skill building (19%), teamwork (17%), perspective-taking (11%), and exploration (5%). The YSP strengthened students' STEM identity, comprehension of cancer concepts, and engagement in maker learning. Hands-on, culturally relevant instruction fostered initiative, collaboration, and belonging. Community-based STEM programs like the YSP show promise for advancing early STEM engagement and diversifying the future biomedical workforce.
Introducing Precision Medicine into an Undergraduate Medical Curriculum: An Interactive Lecture and Case-Based Learning Activity.
Rao M, Traba C, Kra J … +1 more , Mattes MD
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41593403 · Publisher ↗
Precision Medicine (PM)–the use of genomic, environment, and lifestyle data to design care based on individual patient characteristics–has become increasingly important in oncology practice. However, many medical schools...
Precision Medicine (PM)–the use of genomic, environment, and lifestyle data to design care based on individual patient characteristics–has become increasingly important in oncology practice. However, many medical schools lack dedicated instruction in this area. This study aimed to develop a novel educational session integrating PM into the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School third-year curriculum. An in-person, 1.5-h session was implemented, consisting of a lecture introducing definitions, diagnostic and therapeutic platforms, and challenges in PM, followed by an interactive clinical case discussing its applications in non-small cell lung cancer. Pre- and post-assessments evaluated students’ perceived abilities and attitudes and their knowledge and application of PM concepts. The session was attended by 178 students, with 136 paired pre- and post-tests available for analysis (pre-test response rate 92%, post-test 78%). After the session, students believed that they had a greater ability to apply PM in clinical scenarios (pre-test mean 2.7/5, post-test mean 4.3/5, p < 0.01) and perceived greater importance of learning about PM (pre-test mean 3.7/5, post-test mean 4.4/5, p < 0.01). Responses also showed modest improvement in objective content scores (pre-test mean 2.9/10, post-test mean 4.8/10, p < 0.01). At the end of the session, over 90% of students reported that they planned to apply what they had learned in their future practice of medicine. Overall, the session was effective in increasing participants’ understanding, confidence, and appreciation of PM. Future efforts should explore broader integration of PM content into curricula to better prepare students for its growing role in clinical practice.
Self-perceived Ability to Understand Speech does not Influence CRC Screening Adherence Among Sign Language Users.
Wang RM, Bergeron E, Rao SR … +5 more , Perrodin-Njoku E, Bruno DT, Valdez R, Sadler GR, Kushalnagar P
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41582234 · Publisher ↗
Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) through screening improves survival and reduces mortality, yet adherence is shaped by education and communication barriers. Such systemic barriers are relevant for the deaf, dea...
Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) through screening improves survival and reduces mortality, yet adherence is shaped by education and communication barriers. Such systemic barriers are relevant for the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing (DDBHH) population using American Sign Language (ASL). While educational attainment is closely linked to cancer screening, less is understood about whether an individual's self-perceived ability to communicate in spoken language settings influences screening behavior. In this study, we examine 'functional hearing ability,' defined as a person's self-perception of their ability to understand what someone says in a quiet room, and its relationship to CRC screening adherence. Using the National Cancer Institute's Health Information National Trends Survey in ASL and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) CRC screening guidelines, we surveyed 600 ASL-using adults from July 2023 to June 2025. Multivariable logistic regression tested associations between self-perceived ability to understand spoken language in a quiet room (understand well vs. cannot understand well in a quiet room) and screening adherence, adjusting for age, education, their interaction, race, and marital status. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Functional hearing ability was not significantly associated with CRC screening [OR 0.86 (95% CI: 0.58-1.27); p = 0.44]. However, the interaction between age and education remained significant (p = 0.04). College graduates were more likely to follow screening guidelines compared to non-graduates, though this benefit diminished with age [age 45-54: OR 2.47 (1.30-4.70); 55-64: OR 1.25 (0.72-2.17); 65-74: OR 0.75 (0.39-1.46)]. Hispanic [OR 0.80 (0.53-1.19)] and Other races [OR 0.50 (0.31-0.80)] were also less likely to be screened than White participants (p = 0.02). Findings suggest functional hearing ability, defined as perceived ability to understand a speaker in a quiet room, alone does not predict screening adherence. Addressing educational disparities, through ASL-fluent community health workers or patient navigators, may improve increasing CRC screening rates in the DDBHH community.
Designing and Validating Cuidador Web App for Self-Reported Pain among Children and Adolescents in Oncology Care.
Francisco JC, de Oliveira MG, De OliveiraMinharro MC … +2 more , de Almeida GMF, de Avila MAG
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41575722 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to construct and validate a mobile application to guide children and adolescents in oncological care in self-reported pain. This is a descriptive study, based on a systematic instructional design that wa...
This study aimed to construct and validate a mobile application to guide children and adolescents in oncological care in self-reported pain. This is a descriptive study, based on a systematic instructional design that was conducted from 2022 to 2023 on working in pediatric care at two hospitals in Brazil. The content was validated by healthcare professionals, using the content validity index and cutoff score of 0.80. Face validity was assessed by children and adolescents, and a 90% agreement rate was used. The application, named "CuidaDor Web App," comprises four sections: user identification, presence of pain through numerical and facial scales and a body map, history of records, and informative materials. In the content evaluation, the judges assessed seven items: Language, Content, Illustrations, Layout, Motivation, Relevance, and Usability Assessment. The overall content validation index was 0.95. A face validation involved 24 children and adolescents, achieving over 90% concordance rate. However, usability requires parents' assistance for children using the tool. The CuidaDor Web App was developed and validated by healthcare professionals, children, and the target audience. The app may contribute to the management of pain in children and adolescents with cancer during hospitalization and at home. Future studies are needed to evaluate the age group that benefits most from technology and the use of the application as a tool for nurses and healthcare professionals.
Patient Advocate-Trainee Engagement in Oncology Education: Insights from a Short Pilot Survey.
Simone-Soule CA, Burke SE, Abul-Enin D … +6 more , Kunta C, Adekeye A, Tran P, Leader A, Dicker AP, Simone NL
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41543684 · Full text
Patient advocates represent the voice of the patient community and bring a unique perspective to research. We hypothesized that including patient advocates in research training would increase trainees ability to communic...
Patient advocates represent the voice of the patient community and bring a unique perspective to research. We hypothesized that including patient advocates in research training would increase trainees ability to communicate their science, understand the impact of their work and increase their empathy for patients. An IRB-approved survey was administered to assess the impact of patient advocate feedback on trainees who presented their research via posters at our Radiation Oncology Research Symposium. Trainees reported demographics and self-assessed their use of lay language, changes in empathy, understanding the impact of their research, and potential future implications. The binomial proportion test and Fisher’s exact test were used to determine significance. The survey was completed by 80% (28/35) of trainees who participated in the poster session and interacted with patient advocates. Trainees were predominantly younger (60.7% under 30yo) and people of color (60.7%). Almost all trainees (96.4%) were comfortable talking to advocates but only 89.29% were comfortable using lay language. Trainees agreed (75%) that interacting with advocates increased their empathy. Most trainees (71.4%) believed patient advocates helped them understand the significance of their research and 64.3% believed advocates helped them develop new research ideas. Most trainees would like advocates at future poster presentations (85.7%), but did not want them to participate in study design or analysis. Gender and training level did not affect trainees’ ability to communicate in lay language, their empathy for patients, or understanding of their work’s clinical relevance. Including patient advocates in poster sessions may improve trainees ability to present their research in lay language, increase their empathy and understand the clinical impact of their research. Future radiation oncology training should consider including the patient advocate voice to improve the tangible connection between research and real-world impact.
Actionable Steps to Address Disparities in Healthcare Among US Patients With Multiple Myeloma: A Patient Perspective.
Gilbert O, Aiello J, Omel J … +7 more , Price P, Davis A, Ortiz-Ravick LG, Gentry ED, Shah R, Soussou E, Blue B
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41543683 · Publisher ↗
Patients with multiple myeloma (MM), patient advocates, healthcare providers (HCPs), and industry sponsors gathered at 2 MM Health Equity Summits to discuss their experiences and perspectives on MM healthcare inequities...
Patients with multiple myeloma (MM), patient advocates, healthcare providers (HCPs), and industry sponsors gathered at 2 MM Health Equity Summits to discuss their experiences and perspectives on MM healthcare inequities in the US. Eight topics relevant to the patient experience were identified at the first summit, prioritized by participant survey, and aligned on by the entire group. Two topics were then selected for priority discussion in the follow-up summit, which led to the insights presented here and actionable steps for US HCPs, policy makers, and other stakeholders. The first topic centered around delivering precise information specific to a patient’s disease journey, emphasizing awareness and understanding. Lack of MM awareness and its symptoms among non-specialist HCPs and patients was identified as the primary cause for delayed diagnoses in patients with generalized symptoms. Participants suggested that enhancing HCP MM trainings and resources may aid timely diagnoses. Furthermore, using diverse communication channels and leveraging support groups and community health workers may improve MM education for patients, caregivers, and other family members and promote self-advocacy. The second topic focused on improving access to optimal care. Participants discussed how geographical, cultural, and financial factors influence access to specialized treatment. Proposed solutions included telehealth, reducing potential HCP biases in referrals, and using patient navigators to aid with insurance obstacles. Participants also discussed ways to improve perceptions of clinical trials. The MM Health Equity Summits allowed patients and patient advocates to discuss experiences and treatment access barriers. Actionable steps were recommended for HCPs and policymakers to improve treatment of disadvantaged patients, redressing historic inequities, and focusing on solutions to expand awareness, understanding, and access to healthcare.
Evaluating a Tri-Institutional Cancer Research Capacity-Building Program for Early-Stage Investigators.
Maxwell KS, Webb L, Rivers D … +11 more , Smith A, Hudson E, Taylor B, Singh S, Wang H, Rivers BM, Turner T, Carter VL, Dean-Colomb W, Manne U, Scarinci IC
J Cancer Educ · 2026 Jan · PMID 41543682 · Full text
The Comprehensive Partnerships to Advance Cancer Health Equity (CPACHE) initiative of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) supports long-standing collaborations between an under-resourced institution and NCI-designated Ca...
The Comprehensive Partnerships to Advance Cancer Health Equity (CPACHE) initiative of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) supports long-standing collaborations between an under-resourced institution and NCI-designated Cancer Centers to strengthen cancer research workforce and advance cancer research capacity. One of the longest continuously funded CPACHE programs is the Morehouse School of Medicine/Tuskegee University/University of Alabama at Birmingham O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center tri-institutional partnership. A central component of this partnership is training future generations of investigators, which is accomplished through the research education programs that are designed to build cancer research skills, enhance mentorship, and support career development for all levels from high school students to Early-Stage Investigators (ESIs). This paper evaluates the longitudinal impact of a year-long program for ESIs and postdoctoral fellows since its inception in 2007. The data were extracted from the Research Education Core administrative records about the scholars and mentors and utilized publicly accessible databases Scopus and PubMed for publications, and the NIH RePORTER for grants. Among 89 program scholars, nearly 95% had at least one publication since their program start date. Of these, 70% had a first author, and 62% had a senior author publication. Approximately 20% of scholars obtained NIH funding as principal investigators through grants, core leadership, and/or supplements. This tri-institutional program successfully attracted investigators committed to cancer research. The outcomes suggest that structured training, intensive mentorship, and cross-institutional collaboration can meaningfully support their academic careers. These findings provide insights for strengthening similar programs to continue to meet the evolving professional needs for the development of ESIs and postdoctoral fellows, particularly at under-resourced institutions.
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