Efficacy of a touchscreen computer based family cancer history questionnaire and subsequent cancer risk assessment

Objective-A computer based touch-screen family cancer history questionnaire was developed and implemented to facilitate the provision of cancer risk a ssessments for the ambulatory and outpatient populations of a free standing cancer hospital. Methods-A questionnaire consisting of a series of branched point decision m aking screens was developed which enables the participant to enter demograp hic data, personal cancer history, and cancer histories for first and secon d degree relatives. A freestanding touchscreen computer kiosk system was us ed to place the questionnaire in public areas of the cancer hospital and cl inic. Genetic professionals analysed the data received, using published cri teria, and provided a basic cancer risk assessment and surveillance recomme ndations within 10 business days. A survey was completed by a small random group of users (n=59) three to six months after receipt of their risk asses sment. Results-After 11 months, 1440 people had entered information and received a written communication. Only 2% of completed questionnaires contained insuf ficient information to provide a basic risk assessment. Of the small group of participants surveyed, almost all (95%) felt "very comfortable" using th e system, 93% remembered receiving the risk assessment letter when queried three to six months later, 42% felt their perceptions about cancer risk had changed, and 20% had made changes in their or their family's cancer survei llance practices. Conclusion-The touchscreen computer family history questionnaire allows eas y collection of family history information, provision of risk assessments t o a broad population, and promotes increased awareness of familial risk and appropriate surveillance.