ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Reaching diverse population subgroups with information about cancer prevention/early detection, pain management, and clinical trials has historically been a significant public health challenge. A partnership between clergy and cancer educators might help reduce this challenge. METHODS: Participating churches were randomized into two programs for delivering cancer education after their church leaders completed a baseline survey about their knowledge, attitudes, and roles related to the cancer ministry. RESULTS: Clergy reported opportunities to use their acquired cancer knowledge, a high receptivity to their information, comfort discussing cancer care and clinical trials, and a strong recommendation that the educational program/partnership continue to be offered.
Subject(s)
Clergy , Health Education/organization & administration , Neoplasms , Religion and Medicine , Data Collection , Female , Follow-Up Studies , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Humans , Information Services , Male , Neoplasms/diagnosis , Neoplasms/prevention & control , Neoplasms/therapy , United StatesABSTRACT
More than 500 specimens of lung tissue were examined for Pneumocystis. Of the 38 infections detected, most were in immunodeficient patients. Samples of serum from approximately 600 healthy normal subjects and 117 children with acute lymphatic leukemia were examined by an indirect fluorescent antibody test. The age-related data from the normal children suggested that nearly 100% of children are infected with Pneumocystis during the first two years of life. Groups of patients with leukemia who had symptoms of pneumocystis pneumonia had significantly higher titers of IgG antibody than groups of patients with leukemia who did not have clinical symptoms and normal subjects. Nevertheless, the diagnostic value of the indirect fluorescent antibody test is limited, but serologic follow-up study can be useful. Groups of children with leukemia had lower mean titers of IgM antibody regardless of their clinical condition.
