Thom Bongaerts

115 Perspectives on cancer screening participation screening, and that for perspective 3 to more education needs to be provided about risks and numbers relating morbidity and mortality. For two of the perspectives in this study, communication channels others than the GP were found to be appropriate. However, for the respondents of the second perspective, who doubted screening attendance and thought about the potential consequences of the screening, information provided by a GP, or a perhaps another trusted primary care health professional, seems essential. Conclusions Conducting this study allowed us to explore the perspectives of people living in a highly urbanized region concerning cancer screening participation. Our study identified three perspectives on beliefs and motivations underlying screening attendance. Since CSPs will only be effective when participation rates are sufficiently high, it is essential to have insight into the different perspectives among potential respondents concerning partaking in a CSP. Tailor-made communication strategies for these different perspectives are highly recommended to increase awareness and knowledge regarding the CSPs, and probably should also involve primary care health professionals, at least for a part the population. The findings of this study could contribute to the future optimization of the CSPs. Abbreviations CSP: Cancer Screening Programme; RIVM: National Institute for Public Health and the Environment; WHO: World Health Organization; I-Change model: Integrated Change model; GP: General Practitioner. 4

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