Intersecting electronic decision support with user modelling in a web-based consumer decision aid for colorectal cancer screening

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common types of cancer. However, its associated mortality can be ameliorated through effective screening tests dependent on high uptake and adherence within a target population of older adults. This paper describes a developmental process to deliver specific tailored information via the web to assist individuals in making a decision to undertake screening. This decision aid aims to adopt behavioural theories to define the psychosocial variables within a user model; such a model could then be utilised to individualise tailored information to initiate and sustain a decision to undertake CRC screening.