Multifactorial causal beliefs and colorectal cancer screening: A structural equation modeling investigation

We tested a conceptual model that describes the relationship between individuals' understanding of the multifactorial nature of cancer and their self-reported colorectal cancer screening. We collected cross-sectional survey data from 205 men and women age 50-75. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The proposed model had reasonable fit (RMSEA = 0.09, CFI = 0.65). Multifactorial causal beliefs were associated with cancer risk perceptions (beta = 0.16, p = 0.019) and more optimistic cancer cognitions (beta = 0.17, p = 0.013). However, these constructs were not associated with colorectal cancer screening (p's > 0.05). Further testing could reveal whether this model can be applied to other cancer-related health behaviors including lifestyle changes and genetic testing.

Automated summary

This study tested a conceptual model on the relationship between individuals' understanding of multifactorial nature of cancer and colorectal cancer screening, finding that multifactorial causal beliefs were associated with cancer risk perceptions and cancer cognitions, but not with colorectal cancer screening behavior. Further research is needed to determine if the model can be applied to other cancer-related health behaviors.