Promoting public awareness of the links between lifestyle and cancer: A controlled study of the usability of health information leaflets

ObjectivesTo develop health information leaflets for people aged 18–30 about the links between lifestyle and cancer. To devise a lightweight method for evaluating the usability of health information leaflets. To evaluate the usability of leaflets, particularly their effectiveness, in raising awareness about the links between lifestyle and cancer.MethodsA combination of methods was used. A focus group, questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were carried out with members of the public, healthcare practitioners and design professionals to collect requirements for the design of healthcare information leaflets. Two leaflets were developed and evaluated using questionnaires and surveys, using a standard leaflet as the control.Results/findingsAll leaflets increased awareness of the links between lifestyle and cancer and most of this information was retained over a 2-week gap. Participants preferred the leaflet that had a design that was radically different from standard leaflets.ConclusionsDesign guidelines for health information leaflets need to focus on their usability (particularly attractiveness and effectiveness) as well as their legibility and comprehensibility. The attractiveness and effectiveness can be measured using simple usability surveys and awareness tests.

► Health information leaflets need to be attractive and effective as well as legible.
► A set of guidelines for developing usable health information leaflets.
► Leaflets produced using the guidelines are at least as effective as standard ones.
► Using the guidelines produced more attractive leaflets.
► More attractive leaflets are more likely to be picked up and read by the public.