Although research identifying factors associated with breast self-examination (BSE) has been conducted in the U.S., little is known about BSE practice among Asian women. The purpose of this study was to examine factors associated with breast self-examination (BSE) practice among low-income Vietnamese women. The target population for this study was Vietnamese women 40 years of age or older residing in the apartment complexes in low-income Houston area. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaire by a volunteer sample of 345 women. Of 345 Vietnamese women, 38 per cent reported having ever performed BSE, with only 18.6 per cent reported monthly BSE. This study showed that Vietnamese women were unaware of BSE and not well informed about how to do it. Less than one-half knew BSER should be done at least monthly. Knowledge about BSE was significantly (p<.001) related to prior BSE experiences. Many Vietnamese women appear to be unaware of risk factors for breast cancer and a substantial percentage reported having never been screened for the disease. Less than one-half (48.7%) of the participants reported having had a clinical breast examination by a health care provider and 32.8% of the participants had ever had a mammogram. Implications of this study include support for culturally appropriate education that emphasizes the benefits of early detection of breast cancer for low-income and less acculturated Vietnamese.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Breast Cancer Screening, Asian Women
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.