Research Mentor Name
Morhaf Al Achkar, MD, PhD
Research Mentor Email Address
alachkarm@karmanos.org
Institution / Department
Karmanos Cancer Institute
Document Type
Research Abstract
Research Type
healthcommunityimpact
Graduate Level Research
no
Abstract
Background: Arab/MENA communities in Michigan face unique cultural, linguistic, and structural barriers that contribute to lower colorectal cancer (CRC) screening awareness and uptake. “Trimming the Risks” was a community-engaged educational project designed to reach Arabic-speaking men through trusted social spaces, particularly barbershops, and through community-based Lunch and Learn sessions. This project assesses engagement patterns from this initiative to identify effective strategies and challenges to improve future MENA engagement.
Methods: Our educational initiative implemented two main interventions. Pilot A trained barbers on CRC screening information through a structured 2-hour session, provided iPads with bilingual educational videos, and equipped barbers to guide clients through pre/post surveys. Pilot B, developed in response to engagement barriers, shifted to a low-burden model where barbers distributed culturally tailored educational packets containing flyers, resource sheets, and QR codes linking to the video and survey. It also consisted of efforts through mosques and community centers, including eight Lunch & Learn sessions led by physicians from the community.
Results: Recruiting barbers required multiple field visits, trust-building, bilingual materials, and flexible communication. Challenges included time constraints, stigma around discussing cancer, Ramadan-related slow traffic, mistrust of research, and technological issues (e.g., Wi-Fi for iPads). Simplifying expectations in Pilot B significantly improved barber buy-in and packet distribution. Lunch & Learn events achieved strong attendance (1,466–1,521 individuals reached), positive feedback, and evidence of increased CRC awareness.
Conclusion: Engagement in Arab/MENA communities requires culturally grounded messaging, flexible recruitment, and honoring trusted community roles. Simplified, relationship-centered approaches enhance participation and may offer a scalable model for future cancer-prevention efforts.
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
Recommended Citation
Antar, Rawan; Abda, Faten; Al Achkar, Morhaf; Komaiha, Sara; Snounu, Yasmin; Fawaz, Jad M.; Saad, Jawad; and Dulli, Ahmad, "Outreach Challenges and Strategies for Educating Arab/MENA Community on Colorectal Cancer Screening" (2026). Medical Student Research Symposium. 468.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/som_srs/468