Optimizing invitation letters for national cancer screening programs: Qualitative usability testing
Zeena Harakeh, Jessica Nieweg, Renske van Asten, Joris van Leenders, Marco Niënhaus, Pepijn van Empelen · 2026
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Description
Zeena Harakeh and co-authors published this 2026 study on improving the letters that invite people to cancer screening. The Netherlands runs national programs for breast, cervical, and bowel screening. Turnout is slipping, above all in underserved groups. Clearer letters may help people make informed choices about taking part.
The team rewrote two invitation letters using lessons from past research. Twenty-seven Dutch adults, aged 30 to 75, reviewed the drafts online or in person. Many had lower schooling, income, or a migration background. They spoke their thoughts aloud and answered interview questions. Reviewers found the new letters clearer, shorter, and better ordered. Bold key facts and easy contact routes drew praise. The study shows how user testing sharpens public health mail.
Catalog record
| CREATOR | Zeena Harakeh, Jessica Nieweg, Renske van Asten, Joris van Leenders, Marco Niënhaus, Pepijn van Empelen |
|---|---|
| YEAR | 2026 |
| COLLECTION | PAPERS |
| FORMAT | TXT |
| FILE SIZE | 40 KB |
| VERSION | 1.0 |
| LICENSE | CC BY 4.0 |
| RIGHTS | CC BY |
| SOURCE | Europe PMC |