Community Engaged Research to Optimize Cancer Prevention Strategies: A Look at Amplifying Voices Within Community Based Organizations to Impact Cancer Outcome in Utah

Community Engaged Research to Optimize Cancer Prevention Strategies: A Look at Amplifying Voices Within Community Based Organizations to Impact Cancer Outcome in Utah

Price, UT

Black Americans (BA) continue to experience cancer disparities nationally and regionally. Although only 2% of BA reside in the state of Utah, this population shoulders a larger cancer burden. Further, BA women have one of the highest incidence of breast cancer and also an increased risk for other cancers (e.g. colon). The cancer burden and changing demographics within the state warrant focus on these under-represented groups as those moving within the area are increasing. This project details Community-Engaged Research (CEnR) between the University of Utah, the Huntsman Cancer Institute and a community advisory board (CAB) who have collaborated on cancer communication pilot projects for the past 2 years. The collaboration highligted in the poster presentation details research and community-engagement activities for two studies that focus on innovative cancer communication strategies within these populations. A Community Action Team (CAT) was created in November 2022 and comprised of members of the Physical and Mental Health Committee of the Greater Salt Lake City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., and representatives from other predominately Faith and Community-Based organizations (Calvary Baptist Church, Second Baptist, Best of Africa). The CAT helped guide several parts of research design including study questions, recruitment and data collection and led to the creation of another CAB in 2023 that has focused on building capacity with Black Immigrant/Refugee community organizations.