Breast cancer is a leading cause of death among women in the U.S. Although early detection through screening is vitally important to treat breast cancer at its early stage and thus reduce mortality, minority women are less likely to have cancer screening. This study was conducted to examine breast cancer screening behaviors among Korean American women, using a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. The subjects were Korean American women residing in an urban area of Michigan. A questionnaire was developed and modified for cultural appropriateness and translated into Korean using back translation method. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: access to health care, breast cancer screening related items (knowledge and practice), and sociodemographic information. The preliminary findings for a probability sample of 67 Korean American women showed that percentage of women having a clinical breast examination and mammography within the past 12 months were only 47% and 48%, respectively. Forty seven percent of women reported that they never practiced breast self-examination. Factors associated with women's use of breast cancer screening were also examined. Availability of health insurance, knowledge about mammography screening, and feeling about using English-speaking heath clinics were significant factors affecting women's mammography use. The results of in-depth focus group with women who reported having not had breast cancer screening regularly will be reported. The implication for the study may lead to design and implement culturally and linguistically appropriate educational programs to increase Korean American women' awareness and utilization of recommended breast cancer screening and practice.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participant should be able to: 1. Describe the significance of breast cancer and screening behavior. 2. Identify the important factors affecting Korean women's breast cancer screening behavior
Keywords: Asian Women, Breast Cancer Screening
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.