Purpose: The objective of this study was to determine mammography screening rates and factors associated with screening in a Chinese-American population. Methods: Population-based survey of Chinese-American women residing in the Seattle Metropolitan area. Households were identified using Chinese surnames from multiple sources. Women 40 years and older were eligible for the survey. Bilingual and bicultural interviewers conducted interviews that included questions on: sociodemographic characteristics, acculturation, PRECEDE variables, and breast cancer screening. Bivariate analysis was conducted for the following dependent variables: ever had mammogram and recent mammogram (in the last two years). Results: Three hundred and thirty three women completed the survey. Twenty six percent of the women reported never having had a mammogram. Only 60% reported a screening mammogram in the last two years. Ever and recent mammogram screening were significantly associated with the following variables: type of housing, proportion of life in the US, physician characteristics, receiving prenatal care in US, receiving family planning services in US, belief cancer can be caused by poor qi and blood circulation, and that mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer. Conclusion: Mammography screening is under-utilized in this Chinese-American population. Women who lived in rented or subsidized housing, and are recent immigrants had lower rates of screening. Breast cancer screening programs for Chinese-American women need to target women who under-utilize mammogram screening through interventions that address the needs of this population and are also consistent with their beliefs.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, participants should be able to recognize and understand the factors associated with mammography use by Chinese American women. With this information, they should be better equipped to identify Chinese American women who may under-utilize mammography screening
Keywords: Cancer Screening, Asian and Pacific Islander Women
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Not applicable
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.