The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #70607

Heather M. Brandt, PhD, CHES¹, Donna H. McCree, PhD, MPH, RPh², Lisa L. Lindley, DrPH³, and Patricia A. Sharpe, PhD, MPH¹. (1) Prevention Research Center, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 730 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29208, 803-777-7676, hbrandt@sc.edu, (2) Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Behavioral Interventions and Research Branch, 1600 Clifton Rd Mailstop E-44, Atlanta, GA 30333, (3) Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1 Big Red Way, Bowling Green, KY 42101

BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a health concern for women since types of high-risk HPV are linked to cervical cancer. HPV educational materials should be a viable source of accurate and meaningful information for women. No critical evaluation of existing printed materials that address HPV in women has been done. METHODS: Twenty-one existing, printed HPV educational materials were evaluated by three independent reviewers. The Suitability Assessment of Materials (Doak et al, 1996), or SAM tool, was utilized to examine content, literacy demand, graphics, layout and typography, learning stimulation/motivation, and cultural appropriateness. Readability assessments (SMOG and Fry Method) and a thematic content analysis were also conducted. SAM scores from three reviewers were averaged and ratings were assigned. Content and readability assessments were also averaged. RESULTS: Based on SAM rating guidelines, most materials were “not suitable” or barely “adequate.” The structure of the educational materials was not presented in a stimulating manner and cultural appropriateness were lacking. Information presented was not consistent and, in some case, not accurate. Reading levels for the materials were high (>8th grade) and the vocabulary used was medicalized and complex. CONCLUSIONS: Existing materials may not be appropriate for populations with lower literacy levels. Information could be presented clearly, using less complex and non-medical language.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant in the session will be able to: (
• Identify sources of HPV educational materials; (
• Understand how to critically evaluate such materials; and (
• Discuss characteristics of good HPV educational materials and necessary areas of improvement.

Keywords: Cervical Cancer, Patient Education

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Handout (.ppt format, 106.0 kb)