The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #47386

Joanne M. Fugere Fedele, RN, MS, Department of Nursing Administration, North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, VT 05855, 802-334-3208, jfedele@nchsi.org

In Vermont’s rural northeastern counties, North Country Hospital (NCH) serves a population with significant economic and educational challenges. While breast cancer (BC) incidence is slightly lower in VT than the US, data suggest that the BC death rate is higher in the NCH area than in VT and the US, and that the screening rate in women of low or middle economic/educational status is lower than in women of higher economic/educational status. In 2001, with support from the Vermont Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, NCH implemented a community-based outreach program for BC education and screening. A community health educator, working 16 hours/ week, developed an educational display and presentation that was implemented at over 45 sites throughout the two counties. Over 500 women were reached through group presentations, with additional numbers reached through community and work site health fairs and events. Pre and post-test scores show a significant increase in knowledge about BC. Fear of cancer, prioritizing family needs over a woman’s own health needs, and under-insurance (high deductible) continue to emerge as obstacles to screening. Easy access to funds has alleviated financial burdens for women who might otherwise decide not to have screening. Project replication in rural areas is feasible. It is anticipated that funds for screening will be available in 2002. An ongoing BC awareness campaign emphasizing the need for early detection will promote utilization of these funds.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify at least three mechanisms to recruit women in a rural area into a breast cancer education program
• Describe the change in knowledge about breast cancer in women who participate in an educational session as measured by pre- and post-test scores
• Identify at least two obstacles in the provision of breast cancer education and screening to women in rural areas
• List at least two reasons to support the availability of clinical breast exams and mammograms at no cost to women in rural areas

Keywords: Breast Cancer Programs, Outreach Programs

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee