Journal of Cancer Prevention  2016;21(3):201-206

doi:10.15430/JCP.2016.21.3.201

Advancing Cancer Prevention and Behavior Theory in the Era of Big Data.

Audie A ATIENZA 1 ; Katrina J SERRANO ; William T RILEY ; Richard P MOSER ; William M KLEIN

Affiliations

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Keywords

Cancer; Prevention; Data set; Health behavior

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

The era of "Big Data" presents opportunities to substantively address cancer prevention and control issues by improving health behaviors and refining theoretical models designed to understand and intervene in those behaviors. Yet, the terms “model” and “Big Data” have been used rather loosely, and clarification of these terms is required to advance the science in this area. The objectives of this paper are to discuss conceptual definitions of the terms "model" and "Big Data", as well as examine the promises and challenges of Big Data to advance cancer prevention and control research using behavioral theories. Specific recommendations for harnessing Big Data for cancer prevention and control are offered.