Health Disparities in Awareness of Physical Activity and Cancer Prevention: Findings from the National Cancer Institute's 2007 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS)

Abstract

This national study examines differences between racial/ethnic groups on awareness of physical activity and reduced cancer risk and explores correlates of awareness including trust, demographic, and health characteristics within racial/ethnic groups. The 2007 Health Information and National Trends Survey (HINTS) provided data for this study. After exclusions, 6,809 adults were included in analyses. Awareness of physical activity in reduced cancer risk was the main outcome. Logistic regression models tested relationships. Non-Hispanic Blacks had a 0.71 (0.54,0.93) lower odds of being aware of physical activity in reduced cancer risk than non-Hispanic Whites. Current attempts to lose weight were associated with greater odds for awareness among non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics (p < .01). Among non-Hispanic Blacks, trust in traditional and Internet media was associated with greater odds of awareness (p < .01). This study is the first national study to examine racial/ethnic disparities in awareness of physical activity and cancer risk. Comparisons between racial/ethnic groups found Black–White disparities in awareness. Variables associated with awareness within racial/ethnic groups identify potential subgroups to whom communication efforts to promote awareness may be targeted.

Notes

*p < .05; **p < .01. ^§Significant following modified Bonferroni test of significance with adjusted p value calculated as .05/(number of total comparisons-rank order +1).

^a Scores are based on the following: 4—trust a lot, 3—trust some, 2—trust a little, 1—trust not at all.

^b Each trust variable was entered into the model separately, but they are presented here together to facilitate within group comparisons.

^c Traditional media includes audio and visual media.

^d Reference group is trust a little or not at all.

This article is not subject to U.S. copyright law.