Design Elements for the Development of Cancer Education Print Materials for a Latina/o Audience

Abstract

Health educators can help reduce cancer disparities in Latino populations through the creation of effective print materials. In this effort, the National Cancer Institute conducted a comprehensive needs assessment to identify key design elements of cancer education programs and create a cost-effective process that would ensure consistency in the development of materials. This article introduces the Checklist of Design Elements for the Development of Cancer Education Print Materials for Latina/o Audiences (CEMLA), which includes a total of 10 design elements related to the process of developing materials and content. Using social learning theory as a theoretical framework, design elements are included that reflect cultural sensitivity at the surface and deep structure levels. This is the most comprehensive effort to date to integrate and synthesize theory and application in the design of materials for this audience.

Addressing Health Disparities Through Patient Education: The Development of Culturally-Tailored Health Education Materials at Puentes de Salud

“…A majority (60%) quickly identified family as a primary motivator, echoing the prevalent Latino cultural concept of familismo (Buki et al, 2009). Providers reported that their patients often come for care as a family unit, and involve family members integrally in their plan of care.…”

“…The importance of using native Spanish speakers in this process has been previously reported by Buki, Salazar, and Pitton (2009). All physicians at the clinic also provided feedback on draft versions of the health information pamphlets to ensure scientific consensus.…”

Development and pilot testing of a culturally sensitive multimedia program to improve breast cancer screening in Latina women

“…Furthermore, they are not suitable for a Spanish-speaking population with low health literacy [3,4]. In contrast, our study aimed to test the effects of a brief multimedia program developed for Latina women with varying health literacy and designed explicitly for integration into clinical care.…”

Qualitative Exploration of an Effective Depression Literacy Fotonovela with at Risk Latina Immigrants

“…Culturally appropriate health literacy tools are recommended for the improvement of mental health literacy given their ability to incorporate photographs, present health information in lowered reading levels, and deliver a storyline that reflects the targeted audience's culture (Bell and Alcalay 1997;Buki et al 2009;Hinojosa et al 2010;Horner et al 2000). Such printed health materials are considered most effective when they engage and are appealing to the intended audience, resulting in identification with the storyline and main characters, and ultimately lead to needed help-seeking behaviors (Bell and Alcalay 1997;Nelson et al 2008).…”