Digital Storytelling Interventions to Promote Cancer Screening Among Hispanic/Latino Adults in Primary Care Settings
Journal of Cancer Education Jul 2025
RHCP developed a digital storytelling project called Stories for Change: La detección temprana puede salvar vidas to encourage cancer screening among Hispanic/Latino adults who were overdue for breast, cervical, or colorectal screenings. Eight storytellers shared personal experiences in short Spanish-language videos, which were shown to 51 participants across three clinical sites. After viewing, all participants said they intended to get screened, and over half completed screening within seven months. Most who followed through said the videos strongly influenced their decision. Participants connected deeply with the stories, reporting increased confidence and motivation to act.
Despite high engagement, barriers like time, cost, fear, and lack of provider recommendation prevented some from completing screenings. Those who had previously been screened were more likely to follow through again, suggesting that newcomers may need additional support. Participants recommended adding more educational content and expanding outreach to younger audiences. The intervention was well-received and culturally resonant, showing promise for reducing disparities in cancer screening. Future efforts should include navigation support for follow-up care and address structural barriers to ensure equitable access to diagnostic and treatment services.