Problem-Solving in Technology-Rich Environments and Cancer Screening in Later Life

Objectives: Routine cancer screening is widely recognized as an effective preventive strategy to reduce cancer mortality -- the second leading cause of death in the U.S. However, cancer screening requires a complex array of tasks such as seeking up-to-date guidelines, making appointments, planning hospital visits, and communicating with health care professionals. Importantly, modern health care largely relies on technology to disseminate the latest information and administer the system. Yet, little is known about the technology-related skills that are relevant to regular cancer screening. This study examined the association between problem-solving skills in the technology-rich environment (PSTRE) and cancer screening in later life. Methods: Using 2012/2014 Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies data, binary logistic regressions with survey weights were used to estimate the association between PSTRE and four cancer screening behaviors among the corresponding target populations aged between 45 to 74 years old (n = 1,374 for cervical screening; n = 1,373 for breast screening; n = 1,166 for prostate screening; n = 2,563 for colon screening). Results: Results showed that greater PSTRE scores (0 - 500 points) were significantly and positively associated with prostate cancer screening (OR = 1.005, p < 0.05) among men, but not with colon (men and women) or cervical or breast (women) cancer screenings. Conclusions: Improvement in PSTRE may promote specific cancer screening behaviors. Our findings inform future policy discussions and interventions that seek to improve cancer screening among a vulnerable section of older populations. [This paper will be published in "European Journal of Cancer Prevention."]