Project Sponsor:
Project Investigator:
Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH
Date:
January-June 2024
Study Purpose
The purpose of Project ASCENT is to develop and implement a culturally sensitive, geographically tailored, and patient-centric lung cancer education program alongside comprehensive patient navigation services. This initiative aims to significantly increase the uptake and adherence to lung cancer screening (LCS) among the Hispanic/Latinx community residing within Miami Dade County, within the catchment area of MCI (Medical Center Institution). Given that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among Hispanics/Latinx individuals, particularly due to late-stage diagnosis rates, the project seeks to address this critical health disparity by focusing on primary risk reduction strategies, including access to smoking cessation programs tailored to the cultural and linguistic needs of the community.
Objectives
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To develop a culturally sensitive lung cancer education program tailored to the needs of the Hispanic/Latinx community within Miami Dade County, emphasizing the importance of lung cancer screening and primary risk reduction strategies such as smoking cessation.
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To enhance patient navigation services at MCI by integrating lung cancer screening education and promotion within the existing infrastructure, aiming to increase awareness and access to LCS among Hispanic/Latinx individuals.
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To assess the perspectives, knowledge gaps, and information needs of the Hispanic/Latinx community members regarding lung cancer screening and treatment through focus group methodology, with a specific focus on identifying cultural, linguistic, and structural barriers to LCS uptake.
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To collaborate with LUNGevity Foundation to adapt existing lung cancer education materials and patient resources to better suit the cultural and linguistic preferences of the Hispanic/Latinx community served by MCI, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Outcome
The ultimate outcome of Project ASCENT is to significantly improve lung cancer screening rates and adherence among the Hispanic/Latinx population within Miami Dade County, thereby reducing the burden of late-stage lung cancer diagnoses and improving overall health outcomes. By developing and implementing culturally tailored education programs, enhancing patient navigation services, and adapting existing resources to meet the community's needs, the project aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their lung health and facilitate access to early detection and treatment services. Through these efforts, Project ASCENT seeks to contribute to the reduction of health disparities and improve the quality of life for Hispanic/Latinx individuals affected by lung cancer within the target population.