Barriers to seeking cancer information among Spanish-speaking cancer survivors

Background. Hispanics face barriers in seeking cancer information from sources such as the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service. Their cancer screening rates are lower than those for whites. Methods. Three focus groups were conducted with 40 Spanish-speaking cancer survivors. Results. Few patients had used a toll-free telephone number to get cancer information. Only five had used the Internet. Fear of feeling worse was a common concern in seeking cancer information, as was trying to discuss their cancer in English. Spanish language media promotions were recommended. Conclusions. Beliefs and attitudes about cancer must be taken into account when developing culturally competent education programs for Spanish speakers.