Information design for bowel cancer detection: The impact of using information visualisation to help patients prepare for colonoscopy screening

Abstract Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly occurring cancers in the world, and colonoscopy is the most sensitive procedure to detect it. Colonoscopy success depends on the quality of bowel preparation, yet the way information is designed and communicated to patients does not meet their needs. By considering how information is conveyed through three different outputs (booklet, motion graphics and app), this study investigates the advantages of using visualised information when communicating bowel preparation instructions for colonoscopy screening. A user-centered multiple-methods approach was followed and results show how user performance benefits from the use of information visualisation. A set of guidelines is given to inform the development of bowel preparation instructions and other similar health related communications.