The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #47011

Jean E. Swinney, PhD, RN, School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, School of Nursing, Arnold House, Amherst, MA 01003, Arnold House, Box 30420, Amherst, MA 01003-0420, (413) 545-3793, jswinney@nursing.umass.edu and May T. Dobal, PhD, RN, College of Nursing, Wayne State University, College of Nursing, 557 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48202.

According to national data, African Americans continue to experience disparities in cancer morbidity and mortality. Several recent studies have revealed cultural beliefs and lack of knowledge among African Americans contribute to their vulnerability to this disease.A convenience sample of 95 African Americans oncology outpatients between 35 and 65 was recruited from two large medical centers. In an effort to gain a better understanding of the views of African Americans with cancer, interview data were gathered to clarify participants' views of cancer and perceptions of their health status. Common themes found in this study were spirituality, importance of functional health, tending to their family, and barriers to care. An example (part of an interview) of the qualitative data is as follows: "…When I got home from the hospital I stayed in bed, I didn't pamper myself, I just did my normal routine that I would do every day. My husband would get after me cause I was picking up stuff … I've never been in bed when I had my surgery. That morning after my surgery my doctor, he came in and sent me home. I didn't run a fever; I didn't have no pain, thank God for that. I prayed to God for that, cause I always prayed…" Interview data in this study provide preliminary insights into understanding African Americans and their perceptions about health and their cancer. The beliefs and behaviors of African Americans regarding cancer are important considering the continuing disparity in morbidity and mortality rates.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives

At the end of this presentation participants
• will be able to describe at least two research studies which address cancer beliefs in African Americans,
• describe at least three cultural factors held by African Americans in this study,
• identify at least three important factors to consider when addressing cancer disparities that exist between African Americans and White Americans

Keywords: African American, Cancer

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.

African-American Health Care Beliefs and Practices

The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA