In 1999 we began a study to explore variations in knowledge and practices of breast cancer screening among several groups of women in NYC. Subjects were from a prenatal care and family planning program that provides services to a predominantly low-income, immigrant population. Data were first collected on three Latina subgroups (Dominican, Mexican and Ecuadorian) (N=571), and then on African-American and West Indian women (N=400). As data on the Latina groups were reported previously, this presentation will describe the African-American and West Indian sample and compare the results to the Latinas. The mean age of the African-American and West Indian sample was 24 years. Preliminary analysis shows very few differences between African-Americans and West Indians as to whether they had heard of breast self exams (BSE) (99% and 97.9% respectively), been taught how to perform BSE (91% and 91%), BSE performance, and BSE frequency. Ninety-nine percent of the African American and 98% of the West Indian respondents had heard of clinical breast exams (CBE), and 96% of both groups had ever received one. Because the group was young, only 11% had ever received a mammogram, though 97% of the African American and 96% of the West Indian women had heard of them. Compared to the Latinas, this sample has a higher proportion of women who know about and engage in screening practices. They also responded very differently to open-ended questions about what causes breast cancer, the advantages and disadvantages of screening, and why women don't get screened.
Learning Objectives: 1) Understand racial and ethnic differences in knowledge about breast cancer screening 2) Understand racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer screening practices 3) Comprehend community-based efforts to enhance screening behavior
Keywords: Breast Cancer Screening, Minorities
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.