This randomized controlled study evaluated a social media-based educational program for women who had not previously participated in breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer screening. A total of 132 women aged 30-70 years were assigned to either a social media-based education group or a standard online education group.
The social media-based program was structured according to the Social Ecological Model and delivered through closed WhatsApp and Instagram groups. The standard education group received two online educational sessions via Zoom.
The study evaluated three primary outcomes: knowledge regarding cancer screenings, attitudes toward cancer screening, and self-reported digital health literacy. These outcomes were measured before the assigned educational program and four weeks after its completion. The study did not measure actual participation in cancer screening.
Who can participate
Age range
30 Years – 70 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Female
* Aged 30-70 years
* Applied to Medipol Mega University Hospital in Istanbul between June and August 2025
* Had not previously undergone breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer screening
* Actively used both WhatsApp and Instagram
* Had access to a digital device and internet connection that enabled participation in the educational program
* Voluntarily agreed to participate and provided written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* Previous diagnosis of any type of cancer
* Previous participation in any breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer screening procedure
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Cancer Screening Knowledge Score
Timeframe: Baseline and 4 weeks after completion of the assigned educational program
2
Change in Attitudes Toward Cancer Screening
Timeframe: Baseline and 4 weeks after completion of the assigned educational program
3
Change in Digital Health Literacy Level
Timeframe: Baseline and 4 weeks after completion of the assigned educational program