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Emilia Patricia Zarco, MD, MEd1, Theresa Dukes, MA1, Kim Rozzi, MPH2, and Karolina Bizik2. (1) Department of Health Studies, Physical Education and Human Performance Science, Adelphi University, Woodruff Hall, South Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530, (2) The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education, 800 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington, NY 11050, 516 883-6303, Info@maurer-foundation.org
The Young Women’s Breast Health Program, the flagship initiative of the Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education is a forty-minute interactive program for high school students focusing on lifestyle changes to reduce risks for breast cancer and introduce them to methods of early detection.
The Foundation collaborated with Adelphi University to assess the effectiveness of the program and improve delivery. A comprehensive evaluation design was piloted as an internship project. The evaluation process utilized four tools: a breast health risk behavior survey before the interactive session; a post-intervention test to assess knowledge gained and correct performance of breast-self-exam in models; a follow-up survey to determine lifestyle behavior changes, especially regular practice of BSE 6-8 weeks after the session; and a structured observation tool to assess program delivery.
Over a thousand students from 11 high schools participated in the pilot evaluation. Results of the breast health risk behavior survey validated the need for breast health education among high school students. The students did very well in both the knowledge and practical tests (BSE performance in models) of the post intervention test. Although students perceived the relevance of the session and expressed the intention to perform BSE regularly, follow-up survey revealed otherwise. Only 10% of students surveyed indicated that they perform BSE regularly and correctly.
Details of the YWBH program development and implementation, evaluation process, results and recommendations will be presented. Participants will analyze the strengths and limitations of the program and formulate guidelines for effective breast health education.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Breast Cancer Programs
Related Web page: www.maurer-foundation.org/index.asp
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment, executive director