Evaluation of community outreach feasibility programmes on improving cancer-related, preventive, health behaviour

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on cancer services and will have likely led to delayed early detection and diagnosis. In response, the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) planned and delivered seven cancer roadshow events run on 15 days across seven shopping centres in four deprived areas based on Trinity National Deprivation Index, 2016, in Limerick, Cork, Waterford and Dublin regions in Ireland to educate and promote awareness about cancer signs and symptoms, importance of screening, positive lifestyle changes, and encourage medical care-seeking behaviour. METHODS: ICS nurses and trained ICS volunteers conducted health checks such as blood pressure, BMI, and CO(2), monitoring (one health check per person maximum), provided health information and conducted motivational interviews in aforementioned regions. Data were collected via an anonymous questionnaire from participants and volunteers. SPSS was used for descriptive and pre–post event comparative analysis. FINDINGS: 98 people, all adults (54 men and 44 women) participated; 88% (n=86) found the information provided useful, 85% (n=83) approved of the health check and 73% (n=71) stated that they would probably make changes to their current lifestyle to reduce their cancer risk. Moderate or high understanding of cancer signs and symptoms (from 62% to 82%; p<0·0001) and moderate or high awareness of cancer risk factors (from 49% to 61%; p<0·0001) both rose after the events. If symptomatic for cancer, 78% (n=76) of participants would probably visit their general practitioner and 74% (n=72) would probably contact ICS. Younger people (aged ≤40 years) were more likely to consider consulting a health-care professional if symptomatic (p=0·0270) and to contact the ICS (p=0·0070) for more information. High numbers of participants (99%; n=97) and volunteers (95%; n=42) recommended a nationwide roll out. INTERPRETATION: With moderate to high levels of public engagement, volunteers reported people discussed cancer screening, information on making lifestyle changes, and ICS services. Such community outreach programmes to promote cancer-related health are feasible and acceptable and might lead to improved knowledge of cancer prevention, early detection, and improved intention to seek help for health concerns. Determination of effectiveness in preventive behaviour, early diagnosis, and cost effectiveness would require longer term follow up. FUNDING: Irish Cancer Society.