A Woman in Transition: can drama deliver a cancer awareness message?

J Cancer Educ. 2006 Fall;21(3):129-32. doi: 10.1207/s15430154jce2103_7.

Abstract

Background: Entertainment education is a field of health communication that utilizes a variety of entertainment to change health behaviors.

Method: In this article, we describe a pilot project in which we measured the effectiveness of drama as a health communication tool. Attendees completed a pretest and posttest measuring knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to breast cancer screening.

Results: At posttest, more women indicated breast self-exam rather than mammogram to be the "best method of early detection."

Conclusion: Researchers who use drama as a communication tool cannot be assured of the final health message delivered. Careful evaluation to monitor the effectiveness of drama as a cancer awareness tool is vital.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alabama / ethnology
  • Awareness*
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data
  • Breast Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms* / ethnology
  • Breast Neoplasms* / prevention & control
  • Breast Self-Examination
  • Cultural Characteristics
  • Female
  • Health Education
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Mammography
  • Mass Screening
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Research Design