Using theater to promote cancer education in Alaska.

Background: Cancer, a rare disease in the 1950s, is now the leading cause of death among Alaska Natives (AN).

Methods: Building on AN rich traditions of storytelling to share knowledge and wisdom, a 45 minute play, Understanding, was developed to address cancer-related issues specific to AN.

Results: Written audience evaluations assessed the impact of this theater-based education. After seeing the play, 327 (94.5%) people reported feeling more comfortable talking about cancer, 265 (66.1%) shared that they had learned about cancer, and 234 (61.7%) wrote healthy ways they intended to change their behavior.

Conclusion: A postplay discussion provided an opportunity for the audience to share their stories, concerns, beliefs, and feelings.