Social Network Encouragement for Colon Cancer Screening

Recruiting at 6 trial locations

Overseen By Jennifer Leng, MD, MPH

Age: 18+

Sex: Male

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Disqualifiers: Household member participated, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

80 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The Black community has higher rates of colorectal cancer and lower rates of colorectal cancer screenings than whites. Getting screened through FIT testing may help catch colorectal cancer earlier, when it is easier to treat. MSK has created a program to help people who have been FIT tested to also help their peers (family, friends, and colleagues) in their community get FIT tested. The researchers think that training people on peer outreach, such as telling people in your social network about FIT testing and how to get it, may increase the rate of colorectal cancer screening. The purpose of this study is to see if training people on peer outreach increases the number of people who get screened for colorectal cancer through FIT testing.

Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What data supports the idea that Social Network Encouragement for Colon Cancer Screening is an effective treatment?

The available research shows that Social Network Encouragement, or social support, is effective in increasing colon cancer screening rates. For example, a study focused on Latino adults in Pennsylvania found that those who received social support were 2.67 times more likely to complete a colon cancer screening test compared to those who did not receive such support. This suggests that social support can significantly boost screening rates, making it an effective treatment for encouraging colon cancer screening. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Peer Outreach, Peer Support, Social Network Intervention, Community-Based Outreach for colon cancer screening?

Research shows that social support, like peer support groups, can significantly increase colorectal cancer screening rates. For example, a study found that participants receiving social support were 2.67 times more likely to complete a screening test compared to those who did not receive such support. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

What safety data exists for social network interventions in colon cancer screening?

The provided research does not directly address safety data for social network interventions in colon cancer screening. However, it highlights the effectiveness of community-based outreach and social support interventions in increasing screening rates among diverse populations. These studies focus on the impact and acceptability of interventions like community education, automated outreach, and social support, but do not report specific safety concerns or adverse effects related to these interventions. ^{3 4 5 6 7}

Is social network encouragement for colon cancer screening safe for humans?

The studies reviewed did not report any safety concerns related to social network encouragement or community-based outreach for colon cancer screening, suggesting it is generally safe for humans. ^{3 4 5 6 7}

Is Peer Outreach a promising treatment for encouraging colon cancer screening?

Yes, Peer Outreach is a promising treatment for encouraging colon cancer screening. It leverages social networks to spread awareness and motivate people to get screened. By using community-based outreach and support from key players in social networks, it can effectively increase screening rates, especially in underserved areas. This approach helps overcome barriers and improves access to information and resources, making it a valuable strategy for promoting colon cancer screening. ^{1 5 7 8 9}

How does the Peer Outreach treatment for colon cancer screening differ from other treatments?

The Peer Outreach treatment is unique because it leverages social networks and community-based support to encourage colon cancer screening, rather than relying solely on traditional medical interventions. This approach uses peer support and social influence to motivate individuals, which can be particularly effective in underserved communities where social connections play a crucial role in health behaviors. ^{1 5 7 8 9}

Research Team

Francesca Gany, MD, MPH

Principal Investigator

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for Black men, aged 45-75, who have completed FIT testing in the past year. Participants must speak English or French fluently and have at least five close male peers over 45 years old. Men with a household member already in the study cannot join.

Inclusion Criteria

I know at least 5 Black men aged 45-75 who are close to me.

I am male.

I am very fluent in English or French.

Exclusion Criteria

Has a household member who has already participated (or agreed to participate)

Has already been approached by a peer participating in the study (index participant) to complete FIT testing

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Education and Training

Participants receive education on colorectal cancer and training on peer outreach to encourage FIT testing

8 months

Monthly telephone support and biweekly text messages

Follow-up

Participants complete follow-up form and assist in completion of peer outreach tracker

8 months

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Peer Outreach

Trial Overview The study tests if training individuals to encourage their peers to undergo colorectal cancer screening (FIT testing) increases screening rates. It compares outcomes of those given both peer outreach training and CRC education versus those receiving only CRC education.

Participant Groups

Group I: FITx3 intervention and CRC education Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Provide CRC education, SN education, handouts and text message/social media posts example library. Monthly Telephone Support Provide any additional support to index participants for peer FIT testing, assist in completion of peer outreach tracker. Biweekly Text Messages. Follow-up Assessment (month 8 after intervention) Complete follow-up form and assist in completion of peer outreach tracker Provide reminders to encourage participants to encourage peers to get FIT tested.

Group II: Colorectal Cancer (CRC) education alone Active Control 1 Intervention

All participants will be educated, on a simplified clinical and medical background of CRC; causes and risk factors for CRC; eligibility criteria for screening; lifestyle modifications to lower risk of developing CRC; screening methods for CRC, including FIT and colonoscopy; addressing myths and misconceptions about CRC; and information about resources for low-cost and no-cost screening, screening for the uninsured and screening for those without legal immigration documentation. Participants will also be educated on elements of fecal immunochemical testing (detects signs of cancer in the stool, can be done at home and sent to a laboratory for analysis, needs to be done yearly to ensure maximal effectiveness for cancer screening). Follow-up Assessment at 8 months complete follow-up form and assist in completion of peer outreach tracker Provide reminders to encourage participants to encourage peers to get FIT tested.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,998

Recruited

602,000+

CANCER PREVENTION FUND

Collaborator

Trials

1

Recruited

80+

Findings from Research

Women with larger social networks have better breast cancer survival rates and lower mortality risks, highlighting the importance of social relationships in cancer outcomes.

The review identifies various mechanisms, beyond just social support, such as social resources and norms, that could influence cancer outcomes, suggesting new avenues for interventions to improve patient care.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A conceptual model of social networks and mechanisms of cancer mortality, and potential strategies to improve survival. Kroenke, CH.[2023]

The 'Friend to Friend' intervention successfully increased breast cancer screening rates among women aged 40 and older in Minneapolis public housing from 1990 to 1995, demonstrating its effectiveness in a community-based setting.

The successful adoption and adaptation of this intervention by the American Cancer Society for broader use in the state highlights the importance of collaboration between research and community organizations to enhance public health initiatives.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Incorporation of a successful community-based mammography intervention: dissemination beyond a community trial. Slater, JS., Finnegan, JR., Madigan, SD.[2019]

A targeted intervention using social support significantly increased the completion rates of colorectal cancer screening among Latino adults, with a return rate of 66% in the social support group compared to 47.2% in the control group.

The study involved 264 Latino adults aged 50 and older, and those receiving social support were 2.67 times more likely to return a completed screening test, highlighting the importance of community-based strategies in improving screening uptake.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Impact of Social Support on Colorectal Cancer Screening among Adult Hispanics/Latinos: A Randomized Community-based Study in Central Pennsylvania. Dominic, OG., Chinchilli, V., Wasserman, E., et al.[2021]

The outreach program significantly increased colorectal cancer screening rates, with 45% of unscreened members completing screening after receiving an interactive voice response call and mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT), resulting in a hazard ratio of 4.08 for screening completion.

The program was particularly effective for individuals without recent primary or specialty care visits, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to improve screening rates among underrepresented groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Automated phone and mail population outreach to promote colorectal cancer screening. Kempe, KL., Shetterly, SM., France, EK., et al.[2022]

A review of 15 community-based randomized controlled trials found that 73% of interventions significantly increased colorectal cancer screening rates, particularly those using patient mailings and telephone outreach.

Tailoring information to patient preferences and considering community-level factors were key strategies that contributed to the success of these interventions in improving screening rates among multi-ethnic groups.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Community-based colorectal cancer screening trials with multi-ethnic groups: a systematic review. Morrow, JB., Dallo, FJ., Julka, M.[2021]

Community outreach events for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening can motivate individuals to seek or obtain screening, with 26.7% of participants who were due for screening doing so within 3 months after attending an event.

However, many attendees were already compliant with screening guidelines, indicating that these events may not effectively reach those most in need of screening, particularly if priority audiences are not specifically targeted.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Results from an Evaluation of the Georgia Colorectal Cancer Control Program's Community Education and Outreach Events, 2013. Woodruff, RC., Hermstad, A., Honeycutt, S., et al.[2019]

A study involving 387 e-mail users aged 42-73 showed that 74.4% were willing to send personalized e-mail messages to encourage colorectal cancer screening, indicating a strong potential for social support interventions.

Most participants who edited the message made changes to improve its tone and personalization without altering its meaning, suggesting that modifiable e-mail messages could effectively promote screening within social networks.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

E-mail to Promote Colorectal Cancer Screening Within Social Networks: Acceptability and Content. Cutrona, SL., Wagner, J., Roblin, DW., et al.[2018]

In a study of 787 Appalachian residents, 10 key players were identified as influential figures in their communities, highlighting the importance of communication and resourcefulness in promoting colorectal cancer (CRC) screening.

Barriers to CRC screening included negative perceptions of colonoscopy and discomfort with the medical system, but key players suggested increasing awareness, providing information on screening options, and improving access as effective strategies to enhance screening rates.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Colorectal cancer prevention: Perspectives of key players from social networks in a low-income rural US region. Schoenberg, NE., Eddens, K., Jonas, A., et al.[2022]

The feasibility phase of a Facebook awareness campaign reached 39,900 people, with 9,200 engaging with the content, leading to 298 applications for colorectal cancer screening test kits, demonstrating the potential of social media to increase awareness and participation in screening programs.

The expected participation rate from the full campaign could increase significantly, with estimates suggesting that 5%-11% of tests could be completed compared to traditional methods, indicating that this approach may effectively mobilize previously unengaged individuals in colorectal cancer screening.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Feasibility of encouraging participation in colorectal cancer screening campaigns by motivating people through the social network, Facebook. Koïvogui, A., Levi, S., Finkler, M., et al.[2021]

References

1. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A conceptual model of social networks and mechanisms of cancer mortality, and potential strategies to improve survival. [2023]

2. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Incorporation of a successful community-based mammography intervention: dissemination beyond a community trial. [2019]

3. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Impact of Social Support on Colorectal Cancer Screening among Adult Hispanics/Latinos: A Randomized Community-based Study in Central Pennsylvania. [2021]

4. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Automated phone and mail population outreach to promote colorectal cancer screening. [2022]

5. Netherlands pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Community-based colorectal cancer screening trials with multi-ethnic groups: a systematic review. [2021]

6. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Results from an Evaluation of the Georgia Colorectal Cancer Control Program's Community Education and Outreach Events, 2013. [2019]

7. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

E-mail to Promote Colorectal Cancer Screening Within Social Networks: Acceptability and Content. [2018]

8. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Colorectal cancer prevention: Perspectives of key players from social networks in a low-income rural US region. [2022]

9. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Feasibility of encouraging participation in colorectal cancer screening campaigns by motivating people through the social network, Facebook. [2021]