The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #62707

Susan E. Brown, MS, RN, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 250, Dallas, TX 75244, 972-855-1635, sbrown@komen.org

Background: In 2001, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation contracted with the California Family Health Council to conduct a nationwide needs assessment to determine the breast health education needs of young women (20-39).

Objectives: · To determine the overall themes young women wanted in their breast health education materials; · To determine the key messages young women wanted in their breast health education materials; · To determine the preferred format(s) for educational materials on breast health intended for young women; · To determine the preferred venues for education on breast health for young women.

Methods: This project consisted of five (5) components: · A review of existing breast health/cancer education materials developed for young women; · A review of current breast cancer research related to young women; · Twenty-four (24) geographic region and ethnic specific focus groups with young women; · Fifty-seven (57) telephone surveys with breast cancer survivors diagnosed before 40; · Two hundred forty-eight (248) written surveys with health care providers.

Results: Overall themes that emerged for young women were to personalize the information, start education early, utilize familiar spokeswomen, and place information in multiple venues. Young women wanted to hear about risk factors, signs/symptoms of breast cancer, BSE, and the importance of early detection.

Conclusions: There is a dearth of breast health education materials for young women. The delivery of breast health messages for women should be targeted and specific. This project gathered the information needed to develop effective materials on breast health for young women.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this session, participant will be able to:
• Describe the overall themes young women want in their breast health education materials.
• List key messages young women want in their breast health education materials.
• Discuss the preferred formats for edcuational materials on breast health intended for young women.
• Identify the preferred venues for education on breast health for young women.

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: EPA Division of the California Family Health Council, Inc. was contracted by the Susan G. Komen to conduct a nationwide needs assessment of the breast health education needs of young women.