Using focus groups to develop interventions to promote colorectal cancer screening among Vietnamese Americans

Background. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Vietnamese Americans. Their colorectal screening rates are lower than the rates of whites. Methods. Four focus groups were conducted to identify Vietnamese American sources and credibility of health information, media utilization, and intervention approaches. Results. Vietnamese Americans trusted doctors and patient testimonials and had access to, and received most of their health information from, Vietnamese-language print and electronic media. Recommended intervention approaches include promoting doctors' recommendation of screening and using Vietnamese-language mass media, print materials, and oral presentations. Conclusions. Focus groups are useful in determining communication channels and intervention approaches.