Improving colorectal cancer screening - consumer-centred technological interventions to enhance engagement and participation amongst diverse cohorts.

Journal: Clinics and research in hepatology and gastroenterology
PMID:

Abstract

The current "Gold Standard" colorectal cancer (CRC) screening approach of faecal occult blood test (FOBT) with follow-up colonoscopy has been shown to significantly improve morbidity and mortality, by enabling the early detection of disease. However, its efficacy is predicated on high levels of population participation in screening. Several international studies have shown continued low rates of screening participation, especially amongst highly vulnerable lower socio-economic cohorts, with minimal improvement using current recruitment strategies. Research suggests that a complex of dynamic factors (patient, clinician, and the broader health system) contribute to low citizen engagement. This paper argues that the challenges of screening participation can be better addressed by (1) developing dynamic multifaceted technological interventions collaboratively across stakeholders using human-centered design; (2) integrating consumer-centred artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to maximise ease of use for CRC screening; and (3) tailored strategies that maximise population screening engagement, especially amongst the most vulnerable.

Authors

  • Saleem Ameen
    College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia. Electronic address: saleem.ameen@utas.edu.au.
  • Ming Chao Wong
    College of Sciences and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia.
  • Paul Turner
    Cambodia-Oxford Medical Research Unit, Angkor Hospital for Children, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
  • Kwang Chien Yee
    College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia.