What is it about?

Can a Short Video Help People Face Their Fear of Colon Cancer Screening? It’s common for people to avoid health information. Often this is because it makes them anxious. This is true for colorectal cancer: the idea of being diagnosed with a serious disease or even just doing the screening test can feel scary. Unfortunately, avoiding this information can lead to fewer people getting screened, and delayed detection can mean worse health outcomes, especially for colorectal cancer which can be prevented with colonoscopy. This study tested whether very short videos (about 90 seconds long) could help promote colorectal cancer screening in people who might otherwise avoid colorectal cancer information. The videos were designed to either: 1. Boost confidence in handling screening (self-efficacy) or 2. Make people feel more in control of their health (perceived control) The researchers recruited 776 adults aged 45–75 who were overdue for CRC screening. After watching one of the videos, participants answered questions about how they felt about screening and whether they planned to get screened soon. The brief videos (focused on self-efficacy or perceived control) helped people feel more positive about screening and more likely to say they would talk to a doctor or get screened. These effects were just as strong for people who normally avoid colorectal cancer information, which is important since this group is often hardest to reach. Videos focused on boosting confidence (self-efficacy) were especially effective. The study also found that these videos worked because they actually made people feel more confident in their ability to complete the screening process.

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Why is it important?

This research shows that even very short videos which could be delivered through text message, social media or clinic waiting rooms, can motivate people to get screened for colorectal cancer. They offer a promising, easy-to-use tool for encouraging more people—especially those who are reluctant—to take charge of their health and get screened for colorectal cancer. The videos are publicly available and ready for use.

Perspectives

We have probably all avoided health information at one point or another. People between the ages of 45 and 75 should make sure they are getting screened for colorectal cancer. There are different ways to screen, including having a colonoscopy which can detect abnormal growths before they turn into cancer and convenient at-home options. If you are overdue for screening and need a little boost of motivation, it might help to take stock of your accomplishments, the times you have done hard things, and reframe your any anxious feelings. Your body isn't telling you that you can't do it, just that it's important.

Heather Orom
University at Buffalo - The State University of New York

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This page is a summary of: Brief video interventions increase screening intentions in people who avoid colorectal cancer information., Health Psychology, June 2025, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/hea0001521.
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