Entertainment education for informed breast cancer treatment decisions in low-literate women: development and initial evaluation of a patient decision aid.

BACKGROUND: We report on the development and initial evaluation of a novel computerized decision support system (CDSS) that utilizes concepts from entertainment education (edutainment) to assist low-literate, multiethnic women in making initial surgical treatment decisions. METHOD: We randomly assigned 51 patients diagnosed with early stage breast cancer to use the decision aid. RESULTS: Patients who viewed the CDSS improved their knowledge of breast cancer treatment; found the application easy to use and understand, informative, and enjoyable; and were less worried about treatment. CONCLUSION: The system clearly reached its intended objectives to create a usable decision aid for low-literate, novice computer users.